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Every July, people across the country celebrate Disability Pride Month, an annual observance that highlights the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of people with disabilities.

According to The Arc, more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States live with a disability, though most will likely experience being disabled – even temporarily – at least once in their life.

Disability Pride Month affirms that disabilities are not a deficit or condition that must be fixed for the person to be accepted, helping to promote inclusion. 

The reason for Disability Pride Month’s observance in July is to commemorate the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law on July 26th, 1990.

The first Disability Pride Parade was hosted in 2004 by the city of Chicago, though the first official celebration was a Disability Pride Day hosted by the city of Boston in 1990.

Continue Reading "30 Ways To Celebrate Disabilities With Pride" →

NOTE: The Des Plaines Public Library will be closed this June 19th in honor of Juneteenth. There will be a display on the third and fourth floors containing media that honors the holiday. 

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a federal American holiday that is also known as “Freedom Day,” a celebration of freeing those who were enslaved.

It honors those who were lost during slavery.

It is a national, symbolic celebration of respect for all cultures.

It demonstrates the fight for freedom for everyone, that no one is free until we are all free.

While it is important to celebrate freedom on this holiday, it is also important to understand the historical significance of this date and why we celebrate.

Continue Reading "40 Recs Celebrating Juneteenth" →

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and we felt it fitting to cover what pride is, as well as a brief history of the event.

And a LOT of book recommendations! 

Originally, LGBTQ+ Pride events took place on June 28th to commemorate the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, which began on June 28th after the Stonewall Inn was raided by law enforcement and lasted until July 2nd.

Continue Reading "Celebrating Pride at DPPL" →

Each November, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American communities.

This observance provides an essential opportunity for education, reflection, and appreciation of the diverse heritage that Indigenous peoples have contributed to the fabric of the United States.

What is Native American Heritage Month?

Established in 1990, Native American Heritage Month was first recognized by Congress as a way to promote the understanding of Native American culture and history.

The month encourages everyone to learn about the achievements and struggles of Indigenous peoples and to acknowledge their ongoing influence in contemporary society.

It serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of Native communities throughout history.

Continue Reading "Native American Heritage Month: Understanding Its Importance and Resources for Learning" →

What is Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

This October 14^th is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a time where we celebrate and honor the complex histories and many cultures of the Indigenous people of the United States.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day recognizes Native Americans as the original inhabitants of the land.

Here in Cook County, we are on the land of the Council of Three Fires—the Ojibwa, Ottawa and Potawatomi—as well as the Miami, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sauk and Meskwaki peoples.

See the official Land Acknowledgement from the Forest Preserves of Cook County HERE.

Beyond commemorating the past, there is a necessity to celebrate Native peoples’ of today by appreciating Native art, culture, and continued environmental efforts.

As Indigenous nations still face inequity and discrimination, we all must share the duty of educating ourselves and continuing the spirit of care and community.

Continue Reading "DPPL Resources to Celebrate" →