Celebrating Disability Pride: My Landmark Address to NAIC on Disability Inclusion
On July 22, 2024, I had the incredible honor of speaking at the 3rd Quarterly National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Member Diversity Leadership Forum Meeting. This invitation was particularly special as it coincided with Disability Pride Month and provided a platform to highlight my recent appointment to the California Department of Insurance’s Insurance Diversity Task Force by Commissioner Ricardo Lara.
Last year, Commissioner Lara introduced the first-ever Insurance Diversity Index, a pioneering tool aimed at fostering a more inclusive insurance industry. His efforts also led to the enactment of AB 1140, authored by the Assembly Committee on Insurance and signed into law in January 2024, which added a new member to the Task Force representing persons with disabilities business enterprises. My appointment to this position marks a significant step forward in the representation and advocacy for disability inclusion within the insurance sector.
Advocating for Disability Inclusion in the Insurance Industry at the NAIC Diversity Forum
As the CEO and Founder of The Alycia Anderson Company, LLC, I am dedicated to the education and advocacy of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace. As a diversity advocate, TEDx keynote speaker, author, and podcast host of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” I have had the privilege of helping numerous organizations understand the profound benefits of creating diverse and inclusive environments. Some of my proudest achievements include receiving the 2022 Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG) Program of the Year and the 2024 Distinguishing Alumni Award from California State University, Chico. My term on the Task Force will extend until June 11, 2026.
The NAIC, the U.S. standard-setting and regulatory support organization, is governed by chief insurance regulators from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories. Despite their diverse backgrounds, NAIC members share a commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring fair, competitive, and healthy insurance markets. Through establishing standards, peer reviews, and regulatory oversight, the NAIC aids regulators in safeguarding the insurance sector and protecting consumers while providing crucial data reporting, licensing, analysis, and financial assessments.
During my presentation, I introduced myself as the first appointee to the newly created Person with a Disability Business Enterprise seat on the California Department of Insurance’s Insurance Diversity Task Force. Speaking to over 50 state insurance department staff regulators, who are leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion, I shared insights on the significance of Disability Pride Month, the importance of disability inclusion, and best practices for creating more inclusive and accessible insurance departments.
My address was an inspiring call to action, emphasizing the need for inclusive practices within the insurance industry and highlighting the critical role that safe, supportive environments play in encouraging open dialogue about disabilities. This opportunity was a significant step in the ongoing efforts of the NAIC and its members to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the insurance sector.
Learn more about my work at The Alycia Anderson Company and about the NAIC at NAIC’s website.