What is Disability Pride Month?
Disability Pride Month is an annual observance commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act into law in July of 1990. The month has been recognized as a time to celebrate and uplift individuals with disabilities. It serves as a reminder that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and included. While the ADA prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities, many physical and attitudinal barriers remain, and each day we are taking one step closer to addressing those barriers.
Our Employees
King County is committed to disability justice. The King County supported employment program provides employment and benefits to individuals with disabilities, as people with disabilities face higher unemployment rates. Employees in the King County program are supported by a job coach and often enjoy long careers at King County.
RJT has worked for King County for over 30 years. He’s a vital player in maintaining our Eastside communities, from trash and recycling collection to cleaning restrooms to seasonal work like clearing invasive blackberry bushes.
You can read more about RJT’s impactful contribution in our Disability Employment Awareness Month blog post.
Garret Williams has worked for King County for 10 years. Between mowing and weeding, litter pick-up, and restroom maintenance at Petrovitsky Park, his role is vital in keeping the outdoors clean, safe, and accessible for all. His favorite task is prepping the baseball fields and trail maintenance.
Shaun Smith has worked at King County for six years. He supports the upkeep of Five Mile Park. He enjoys connecting to nature and spending most of the workday outdoors, surrounded by trees, trails and green spaces. He said his role offers a sense of calm and fulfillment.
“Our SEP team members are truly the heart and soul of our division,” said Parks District Maintenance Coordinator, Gary Brown, “Their dedication is second to none…they strengthen and enhance each and every team they are a part of… They bring humor and humility to us all, making our communities stronger and more connected.”
Rehabilitating Our Parks
Beyond employment, we are expanding our efforts to create a space for all individuals. Here are a couple of examples across King County.
Marymoor Office Ramp Installation
A new gentle slope replaced the previous stairsteps, and new handrails provide stability when entering the Marymoor Park Office.
Petrovitsky ADA Playground
As one of the most heavily used parks in the Seattle area, changes to improve safety and accessibility were necessary. The new playground features upgraded rubber safety surfacing to replace the wood chip ground cover, enabling wheelchair access to all areas. The new play equipment also offers inclusive play for all children to enjoy, regardless of their physical abilities.
You can discover more improved playgrounds across King County here.
While there’s still much more to do, during this Disability Pride Month, we want to celebrate and honor people with disabilities and continue to create a more inclusive county. If you or someone you know requires ADA accommodations, you can submit a request through the King County Parks Accommodation Form. This form aims to provide reasonable modifications to support your participation in any King County Park program, service, or activity.