Leaving the World Health Organization (WHO) undermines U.S. leadership in global health equity, pandemic preparedness, and disability inclusion. As the leading contributor, America’s investments fostered goodwill, trust, and global cooperation. Withdrawal risks isolating the U.S., reducing access to critical disability-related resources like assistive technologies and inclusive healthcare policies, while weakening pandemic preparedness. This decision threatens progress for people with disabilities both domestically and worldwide.

The executive order aimed at reforming federal hiring practices threatens disability inclusion in both government and private sectors. By prioritizing merit-based hiring without addressing the unique barriers faced by disabled individuals, this policy risks further marginalizing them in employment opportunities. The shift away from affirmative action and diversity initiatives could deepen ableism and limit the ability of people with disabilities to access fair and equal job opportunities.

Decades of air travel mistreatment for people with disabilities saw progress under the Biden administration with fines, regulations, and DEI initiatives enhancing accessibility and accountability. However, recent actions by the Trump administration roll back these gains, labeling disability-inclusive FAA hiring as “illegal” and prioritizing ableist rhetoric over inclusivity. Only two of over 80 recent aviation actions address disability, risking accessibility and safety advancements for disabled travelers.

The new administration’s return-to-in-person work mandate threatens progress in disability employment achieved through remote opportunities. Remote work, embraced during the pandemic, provided accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities, breaking barriers in employment. By eliminating flexibility, this policy risks reversing gains and creating inequities, leaving many to wonder: will the government prioritize inclusion or leave people with disabilities behind?

The new administration’s executive order invokes ADA rights while targeting gender ideology extremism, raising concerns for marginalized groups. With limited mention of disability rights, this order prompts questions about the administration’s plans for people with disabilities. An attack on one marginalized group affects us all, emphasizing the need for solidarity and vigilance in protecting hard-won progress toward inclusion and equality.