My Continued Commitment to Celebrate Disability Pride All Year Long
Disability Pride Month is a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility. This July, I had the honor of participating in a series of events that not only celebrated disability pride but also highlighted the critical work being done to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here’s a recap of my journey throughout the month.
Kicking Off at the NCPEID Annual Conference
I was honored to deliver my keynote address, “The Heart of Inclusion,” at the 2024 National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPEID) Annual Conference. This event, held virtually on July 11-12, brought together Adapted Physical Education (APE) and Adapted Physical Activity (APA) professionals to connect, share best practices, and advocate for inclusive physical education. Engaging with educators and advocating for disabling ableism was truly inspiring and set the tone for a busy and impactful month.
Empowering Women at the Rollettes Experience
Continuing my celebration, I had the incredible opportunity to speak and attend the Rollettes Experience. This transformative event empowers women with disabilities through dance, and it was a joy to return as a special guest speaker and panelist. Leading the Teen Talk and moderating the “Beyond the Vows” panel were moments filled with vulnerability, smiles, and a strong sense of community. Seeing my niece Ella embrace her first red carpet walk and wheelchair dance class reminded me of the power of inclusion and empowerment.
Launching Covington & Burling’s Disability and Neurodiversity Firm Resource Group
On July 16, I launched Covington & Burling’s Disability and Neurodiversity Firm Resource Group with my keynote titled “The Heart of Inclusion.” Speaking to a global law firm about the power of allyship, visibility, and accessibility was significant. It reinforced my belief in the critical role that influential sectors play in societal change, and it was invigorating to contribute to Covington’s commitment to inclusion.
Engaging with The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
On July 19, I delivered my “Heart of Inclusion” keynote at The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. This event was inspiring and eye-opening, as employees openly shared their personal stories about disability. Creating a safe space for such discussions helps break down stigmas and fosters connection and collaboration, making everyone feel valued.
Advocating at the NAIC Member Diversity Leadership Forum
On July 22, I spoke at the 3rd Quarterly National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Member Diversity Leadership Forum Meeting. Celebrating my recent appointment to the California Department of Insurance’s Insurance Diversity Task Force, I emphasized the importance of creating inclusive and accessible insurance departments. This engagement marked a milestone in ongoing efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the insurance sector.
Returning to Sodexo for Disability Pride Month
For the second time, I spoke at Sodexo’s Disability Pride Month Panel, sharing my Heart of Inclusion platform. Reflecting on our previous collaboration and being honored with the Sodexo SOAR Team’s ERBG Group Award Program of the Year 2022 was a career highlight. Speaking at this year’s SOAR event was an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to advocate for disability inclusion with such a dedicated organization.
Celebrating the ADA Anniversary with Blue Shield of California
Celebrating the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with Blue Shield of California’s Disability Inclusion Alliance Employee Resource Group (DIA ERG) was heartwarming. The event, “Making the Invisible Visible,” featured a keynote by Dustin Giannelli, whom I introduced. Witnessing Blue Shield’s dedication to disability inclusion reaffirmed their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
Keynoting Stockton Unified School District’s All Staff Kick-Off
On July 31, I keynoted Stockton Unified School District’s All Staff Kick-Off event. Despite a shorter speaking time, I passionately conveyed my message on disability inclusion. Celebrating with over 4,000 dedicated educators was a highlight, and I am grateful to SUSD for emphasizing diversity and inclusion.
Wrapping Up with Etsy
As Disability Pride Month concluded, I delivered my ninth and final keynote, “Intersectionality Through the Lens of Disability,” hosted virtually by Etsy. This event marked my second year speaking for Etsy, and it was a fitting end to a busy and impactful month. Reconnecting with Beth Wiesendanger and witnessing the inspiring journey of Samuel Benifield-Chivore showcased the power of determination and support.
Reflecting on this month, I am grateful for the support from organizations like NCPEID, Rollettes Experience, Covington & Burling, The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, NAIC, Sodexo, Blue Shield of California, Stockton Unified School District, and Etsy. Each engagement offered unique experiences to share my message of inclusion and empowerment. Let’s keep the momentum going and celebrate disability pride all year long!