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Kalamazoo proclaims Disability Pride Month and recognizes Miss Wheelchair Michigan Renita McGuire
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Summary
The commission presented a proclamation to Renita McGuire, Miss Wheelchair Michigan 2025, who spoke about advocacy, Disability Pride Month and plans to represent Michigan at the national competition.
The Kalamazoo City Commission presented a proclamation recognizing Disability Pride Month and honored Renita McGuire, who holds the title of Miss Wheelchair Michigan 2025.
Mayor David Anderson and commissioners called McGuire forward to receive the proclamation; Commissioner Cooney read the document noting her advocacy work and accomplishments. The proclamation recounted McGuire’s life and achievements: she was born with a rare condition limiting arm and leg movement; she taught herself to create art and to DJ using her mouth; she earned degrees from Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Western Michigan University and a master’s degree from Kendall College of Art and Design; and she has served as an adjunct fine-arts instructor at KVCC and KCAD.
McGuire told the commission her platform is ‘‘adversity to advocacy, becoming the Role Model I Never Had.’’ She said her work focuses on mentoring newly disabled people, educating the public to ‘‘smash stereotypes and combat ableism,’’ and encouraging disabled and nondisabled people to create more inclusive communities. She said she will represent Michigan and Kalamazoo in the national Miss Wheelchair America competition next month.
McGuire also urged the city to consider an annual Disability Pride celebration in Kalamazoo and noted that July has been designated Disability Pride Month. "When we open the minds and hearts of people with and without disabilities we eradicate ableism, physical and attitudinal barriers," she said.
Why it matters: The proclamation is symbolic recognition by the city of disability advocacy and Disability Pride Month. McGuire’s advocacy and local role as a professor and public speaker were highlighted as examples of local leaders working on access and inclusion.
What’s next: McGuire will participate in the national Miss Wheelchair America competition; commissioners encouraged continued celebration and acknowledgment of Disability Pride Month in Kalamazoo.
