Alycia Anderson delivered her keynote speech, “Getting to the Heart of Disabling Ableism,” at the University of Lynchburg’s Schewel Lecture Series on March 20, 2024. The event aims to educate and discuss vital topics. This year focused on disability inclusion and combatting ableism. Anderson expressed gratitude for the opportunity and thanked university officials and mentors for their support.
Alycia’s participation in the 2024 NAMI Youth Symposium showcased her dedication to mental health advocacy. Collaborating with NAMI California underscored the importance of eradicating stigma and ensuring access to mental health services. The event provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and action-oriented discussions, inspiring attendees to make a positive impact. Alycia emphasized the importance of collective action and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to building a more inclusive society.
Dr. Lindsay Ulrey, a licensed psychologist and advocate for motherhood among wheelchair users, shares her journey on “Pushing Forward with Alycia” podcast. Dr. Ulrey, a mother of two, discusses her disability identity after acquiring a spinal cord injury. She emphasizes the importance of community support and her initiative, Wheel Good Motherhood, providing resources and a safe space. The podcast highlights empathy and the need for understanding in navigating life’s transitions.
Dr. Lindsay Ulrey, a clinical psychologist, joins Pushing Forward with Alycia, sharing her journey of adapting to motherhood as a wheelchair user. She discusses the inception of Wheel Good Motherhood, aiming to empower mothers on wheels and navigating perinatal mental health. The episode highlights her transition into motherhood, the importance of community support, and embracing change. Dr. Ulrey emphasizes staying open, curious, and continuously learning through life’s transitions. Connect with her via Wheel Good Motherhood and her personal website.
In a recent episode of Jillian Curwin’s “Always Looking Up” podcast, Alycia reflects on her experience before hosting Curwin on her own show. They delve into disability advocacy, Alycia’s leadership choices, DEI efforts, and the importance of brands listening to disabled voices. Alycia emphasizes the power of boldness.
Jillian Curwin, a champion for dwarfism and disability advocacy, discusses her journey on the “Pushing Forward with Alycia” podcast. She shares her motivations for starting her podcast, “Always Looking Up,” focusing on living in a world not designed for people with disabilities. Curwin emphasizes the importance of representation in fashion and media, urging brands to push through fear and continue championing diversity. Her mantra: “Height is just a number, not a limit.”
Jillian Curwin, also known as Jillian Ilana, joins Alycia Anderson on “Pushing Forward with Alycia” to discuss her advocacy work for the dwarfism community. From her podcast “Always Looking Up” to challenging perceptions in fashion, Curwin emphasizes inclusivity and representation. Inspired by Sinead Burke’s British Vogue cover, she highlights the importance of media representation. The episode delves into dwarfism insights, fashion advocacy, respectful engagement, and the impact of her podcast.
On International Women’s Day, I joined a diverse gathering at Humana Headquarters, celebrating women’s solidarity and power. Organized by Access, DEI, and Women’s NRGs, the event united hundreds in-person and over a thousand virtually. As keynote speaker, I highlighted disability inclusion. Notable figures like Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman and Humana CFO Susan Diamond contributed, making it a jubilant affair with music, food, and inspiring touches.
Dr. Donna Walton, founder of Divas with Disabilities Project, discusses her journey and mission with Alycia Anderson. Walton’s personal struggle with disability led to empowering others through representation and resilience. Divas aims to reshape perceptions of disability, especially for black and brown women, advocating for inclusive spaces and amplifying voices globally. Walton’s story of perseverance, from facing cancer to acting roles, exemplifies the importance of never abandoning dreams.
In this heartfelt episode of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Dr. Donna Walton shares her transformative journey from aspiring dancer and actress to advocate for women with disabilities. Through the Divas With Disabilities Project, she champions representation and resilience. Walton’s story, marked by overcoming bone cancer at 18, inspires listeners to pursue dreams relentlessly. Her impactful work extends globally, advocating for inclusivity and meaningful representation. The episode encapsulates resilience, triumph, and unwavering determination.
