In this blog, Gary Bourlet—long time advocate of Learning Disability Pride—shares why it matters and what he hopes to see in the future.
You might be wondering—what makes Learning Disability Pride different from other pride events?
The answer is simple: it’s about being proud of your learning disability.
There are many kinds of Pride events, and they all have their place.
Learning Disability Pride is unique because it celebrates the experiences, strengths, and identity of people with learning disabilities.
In the past, I’ve encouraged people to mark Learning Disability Pride for a week in June.
This year, I’ve decided to open it up for the whole month of June.
You can celebrate any time that works for you—whether it’s for an hour, day, a weekend, a week, or the full month. It’s your choice.
Most importantly, I want this to be something led by the community. It’s time to pass the torch.
I don’t want to lead it anymore as I don’t think it should be —I want Learning Disability Pride to grow and thrive on its own.
This year, I’m really pleased that the organisation Grace Eyre is helping to support and promote Learning Disability Pride.
They’re not only spreading the word but also hosting their own event to bring people together and celebrate in their community.
On the 20th June they are having a Learning Disability Pride Party at Puzzle Bored, in Brighton.
There will be art, music, performances, fun and games.
It’s great to see groups like Grace Eyre stepping up to keep the spirit of Learning Disability Pride alive and growing.
I hope people across the country (and maybe even beyond!) will take it on and make it their own.
There are so many ways to celebrate and it doesn’t have to cost much:
- A social media post
- An online event
- Meet friends (maybe have a picnic)
- A community march (make sure to check with the police first!)
- Or anything else that feels right
Just make it fun. That’s what gets people interested and involved. However you choose to celebrate, the most important thing is to be proud of who you are.
Let’s make Learning Disability Pride something everyone can be part of—this June, and every June.
Got something planned to celebrate? We’d love to hear about it! Share it with Learning Disability England members by emailing info@ldengland.org.uk