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By Kathleen Barajas, Board Member, The Arc of California
Disability Pride has evolved in my life over the years. As a young adult, I honestly couldn’t have imagined such a concept. It wasn’t until college that I began to embrace disability pride—when I discovered my voice, my strengths, and my power to educate others simply by being present. Despite the physical and communication challenges I faced, I excelled in my classes and often found myself teaching my professors and peers about what it truly means to live with a disability.
In 2012, I began my professional journey as a Disability Rights Advocate. I joined advisory committees and nonprofit boards, learning quickly that I had a powerful perspective to share. I was honored to be chosen repeatedly to speak on disability-related issues—often using a communication device to deliver my speeches in a way that was clear and accessible to all. I’ve had the privilege of speaking at the California State Capitol on multiple occasions, and each time I felt a profound sense of pride knowing I was there representing my community.
One of the most meaningful recognitions in my journey was being crowned Miss California Wheelchair in 2016, a role that allowed me to amplify messages of inclusion, independence, and empowerment throughout the state. That same year, I also launched Project AIR (Accessible, Inclusive Representation), a personal initiative aimed at increasing visibility for people with disabilities in leadership, media, and civic spaces.
Another moment I hold dear was being selected to serve on the City of Long Beach’s Community Leadership Committee—a body not specific to disability issues. The appointment was deeply meaningful to me because it represented a growing recognition that disability must be part of every conversation, not siloed or seen as separate from broader civic life.
Today, I am proud to serve as a Board Member for The Arc of California, continuing the work of advancing rights and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I am proud to be part of the disability community—not just during Disability Pride Month, but every day. We are powerful, talented, and resilient. I’ve seen minds and hearts change when I share my story, and I will always make it a goal to keep opening eyes to the truth: we are not so different from anyone else.
Happy Disability Pride!