Category: Blog

At its core, inaccessibility is exclusion.


Published: Tuesday February 4, 2025
Image description: Alycia, dressed in all black, sits in her wheelchair, looking down at an inaccessible step. A quote reads: "At its core, inaccessibility is exclusion."

At its core, inaccessibility is exclusion. Lets explore shall we? Inaccessibility = unnecessary barriers that prevents employees from fully participating due to a lack of: – inclusive design– attitudes– policies Let’s break down how it shows up: – Physical spaces without ramps, elevators, or accessible entrances.– Digital platforms that aren’t screen reader friendly.– Communication without … read more… At its core, inaccessibility is exclusion.

Equity Is Accessibility: Why Removing the ‘E’ from DEI Hurts Disability Inclusion


Published: Wednesday January 8, 2025
graphic depicting disability with diversity equity and inclusion with the equity marked out and a question mark next to it

Removing the “E” from DEI weakens disability inclusion efforts. Equity ensures accessibility and empowers an inclusive environment for everyone. In this article, I explore why equity is essential for meaningful change and how sidelining it impacts the disabled community. Let’s champion accessibility and equitable opportunities together for a more inclusive future.

A New Year, A Renewed Commitment to Inclusion


Published: Thursday January 2, 2025

As we step into 2025, I’m doubling down on my commitment to disability inclusion. This year, my focus is on amplifying voices, advocating for accessibility, and inspiring meaningful change. Together, we can build a more inclusive world where everyone belongs. Let’s make 2025 a year of impactful progress.

Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future


Published: Tuesday December 3, 2024
symbols for different types of disabilities circled around a heart next to the text stating international day of persons with disabilities december third all of this laid above the IDPD flag of tricolored gold silver and bronze horizontal stripes

In celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Alycia Anderson highlights the vital role of disabled leadership in building an inclusive, sustainable future. She stresses the need for amplifying diverse voices to break down societal and professional barriers. By recognizing the unique contributions of disabled individuals, we can foster a culture of equity and innovation that benefits everyone. Discover how disability leadership paves the way for progress.

The Invisible Disabled Voter – I see you and I want you to know…


Published: Wednesday October 23, 2024
gymnasium set up with voting booths and voting monitor tables including a sign with american flag stating vote here with arrows pointing and disabled symbol

As we approach a pivotal presidential election, one crucial demographic remains overlooked: the 70 million disabled voters. Our voices are often rendered invisible in political campaigns, despite the significant issues we face. This election is not just about general policies; it’s a matter of survival for many of us. It’s time to make our votes count and demand the attention we deserve.

Runway of Dreams!


Published: Monday September 16, 2024
Alycia wearing a green jacket on the runway with the audience looking on

Alycia Anderson had the incredible opportunity to model adaptive wear at the Runway of Dreams Adaptive Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week. This groundbreaking event, founded by Mindy Scheier, challenges fashion norms and advocates for inclusive, accessible clothing design. For Alycia, walking the runway was a personal dream come true and a celebration of inclusion, challenging traditional beauty standards while making fashion accessible for everyone.

A Recap of My Journey through Disability Pride Month | July 2024


Published: Friday August 2, 2024
alycia making a heart with her hands next to a disability pride flag and words that say july is disability pride months

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.

Bringing the Voice of Disability to the Insurance Diversity Task Force


Published: Tuesday June 25, 2024
alycia with all of the insurance diversity task force members at the quarterly meeting in oakland

Alycia, appointed by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, is the first Persons with Disabilities Business Enterprise Representative on California’s Insurance Diversity Task Force. Congratulating re-elected Chair Mark Morales and new Vice-Chair Vikita Poindexter, Alycia aims to enhance equity and diversity in California’s insurance market. She looks forward to contributing to the strategic plan and the California Insurance Diversity Survey, promoting opportunities for underrepresented communities.

California Department of Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara’s Insurance Diversity Task Force


Published: Wednesday June 12, 2024
california department of insurance commissioner ricardo lara the insurance diversity initiative insurance diversity task force

I’m excited to announce my appointment to the California Department of Insurance as the first member of the Insurance Diversity Task Force representing Persons with Disabilities Enterprise Business (PDBE). This role, conferred by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, aims to ensure the voices of people with disabilities are represented in the insurance industry, promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility to create a more inclusive industry for all.

Embracing Disability Inclusive Leadership


Published: Thursday April 4, 2024
disabled workers and able bodied workers standing side by side cartoon with heading why is disability inclusive leadership important to your organization

Disability Inclusive Leadership integrates individuals with disabilities into organizations, recognizing their unique abilities and perspectives as valuable assets. Alycia, a wheelchair user, advocates for disability inclusion based on her 25-year corporate career. She recently delivered a workshop on the topic at Blue Shield of California, highlighting the company’s commitment to fostering disability inclusion. Such initiatives promote innovation, brand equity, and better serve the needs of the disabled community while enriching the companies they work for.