Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1537217
F O R M A N Y Y E A R S , Dr. Laurie Crawford has advocated for people with disabilities. The special education teacher and member of Stockton Teachers Assn. is acutely aware of how soci- ety, including public education, tends to discriminate against and isolate those with disabilities instead of integrating them fully into mainstream life and work. "As educators we really focus on disability from a special edu- cation perspective — which is critically important — but not a lot beyond that," she says. Crawford, a CTA State Council delegate, saw an opportunity to expand members' awareness of disability and actions to ensure social justice related to disability. She spearheaded CTA's official recognition and support for Disability Pride Month in July, starting in July 2025. e month is a time to break down bar- riers by learning about the history, contributions, achievements, experiences and struggles of people with disabilities. e month coincides with the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law on July 26, 1990. As part of its commitment, CTA will provide educational opportunities for members to develop a deeper understanding of disability as a social justice and civil rights issue. "It's important to educate about ableism (discrimination in favor of able-bodied people), which impacts our education sys- tems for students, families and educators, and should monitor relevant legislation," says Crawford. T h i s i n c l u d e s w o rk i n g t o e x p a n d aw a re n e s s of CTA supports the month of recognition, celebration July: Disability Pride Month The Disability Pride Flag 25 S U M M E R 2 0 2 5 Advocacy