At Sequoia Middle School, I had the honor of guiding students to recognize their differences as superpowers, fueling their dreams and inspiring them to change the world. Through an engaging speech and interactive Q&A sessions, I helped ignite their curiosity, encouraging them to embrace their unique strengths. This memorable experience highlighted the importance of inclusion and empowerment, as these students began to see their potential to shape a brighter future.
This week, I had the pleasure of speaking virtually at Pluralsight, engaging with their global team and collaborating with their Employee Resource Group, Enable! During my keynote, “The Heart of Inclusion,” we explored practical strategies for advancing inclusion and accessibility, empowering employees to thrive. Thank you to Pluralsight for hosting this impactful event and for your dedication to fostering a truly inclusive workplace. The Q&A engagement was fantastic!
Actors Tobias Forrest and John W. Lawson join Pushing Forward with Alycia to discuss their experiences in the groundbreaking film Daruma. This powerful conversation delves into authentic disability representation, the making of Daruma, and the shift toward inclusive storytelling in Hollywood. Together with Alycia Anderson, they explore how disabled actors bring depth to disability narratives and why these stories must be told from an authentic perspective.
The U.S. Department of Transportation imposed a $50 million fine on American Airlines for repeatedly failing to assist passengers with disabilities, resulting in damaged wheelchairs and mistreatment. The fine highlights the airline’s neglect in providing necessary support, essential to passengers’ dignity and independence. Alycia Anderson expresses relief and hope for improved travel experiences, noting that this landmark action addresses long-standing accessibility issues in air travel.
Speaking at Netflix during National Disability Employment Awareness Month was a dream come true for me. As a disability advocate, TEDx speaker, and CEO, I reflected on my journey from a little girl dreaming of the spotlight to addressing major companies worldwide. The experience reminded me of the power of storytelling in advocating for disabled voices and reignited my hope that my story—and others like it—might one day reach the screen.
Alycia Anderson delivered a powerful keynote at Virginia Tech’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebration, emphasizing the importance of inclusive workplace practices. Her speech highlighted the need for diversity in hiring and the value of accessible environments. The event fostered an open conversation about disability representation in the workplace and how these efforts contribute to a more inclusive society.
I recently traveled to Michigan, where I had the privilege of delivering my “Heart of Inclusion” keynote to Bay-Arenac ISD educators and teachers in Pinconning. The energy, dedication, and passion I witnessed were inspiring, reinforcing our shared commitment to creating inclusive educational spaces for every student. I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to see the impact of the conversations we started together!
Disability Pride Month 2024 was a powerful journey of advocacy and celebration. Highlights included keynotes at NCPEID’s Annual Conference, Covington & Burling, The Port Authority of NY & NJ, NAIC’s Member Diversity Leadership Forum, and Etsy. Engaging events such as the Rollettes Experience and Blue Shield of California’s ADA anniversary underscored inclusivity. Each engagement, from Sodexo to Stockton Unified School District, reinforced my commitment to year-long disability pride and empowerment.
As Disability Pride Month closes, I delivered my ninth and final keynote of July, “Intersectionality Through the Lens of Disability,” at a virtual event hosted by Etsy. Returning for the second consecutive year, I shared insights on inclusion and intersectionality with Etsy’s supportive platform. This wraps up an impactful month where I spoke at various esteemed organizations, reinforcing the importance of disability inclusion and empowerment. Let’s keep the momentum going!
I was honored to keynote Stockton Unified School District’s “ONWARD – Imagine the Possibilities” event, celebrating Disability Pride Month. With over 4,000 staff members at the University of the Pacific’s Alex G Spanos Center, I delivered my Heart of Inclusion keynote, despite a shortened 20-minute slot. Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rodriguez shared uplifting updates, and student performances highlighted the district’s vibrant community. My message on disability inclusion resonated deeply, concluding my sixth Disability Pride Month event.
