Category: Contributors Corner

DREDF Hosts “Largest Meeting Ever” to Unite Advocates to Protect and Defend Section 504


Published: Thursday February 13, 2025
picture with the title rehabilitation act section 504 disability rights under attack showing a womans hand on the push rims of a wheelchair wheel and justice scales on top of a stack of books alongside a gavel

The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) hosted its largest-ever gathering to protect and defend Section 504. This landmark event united advocates nationwide, reinforcing the critical importance of disability rights and accessibility. As we push forward, amplifying our voices and standing firm against challenges, this movement strengthens the future of inclusion. Join the fight for equity and accessibility!

Black History Month: Honoring Disabled Trailblazers


Published: Tuesday February 4, 2025
Image that reads black history vibes

Celebrate Black History Month by honoring Black disabled leaders who shaped both racial and disability rights movements. Learn about Brad Lomax, a key figure connecting the Black Panthers to the 504 Sit-In, and Johnnie Lacy, a trailblazer for disability advocacy in education. Discover how their resilience continues to inspire today’s activists, pushing for intersectional inclusion and justice. Their stories deserve the spotlight in shaping our collective history.

What do the new administration’s orders mean for people with disabilities?


Published: Saturday January 25, 2025

The new administration’s inaugural address signals shifts that threaten progress for people with disabilities, including DEI rollbacks, restrictive gender policies, in-person work mandates, aviation accessibility challenges, and withdrawal from the WHO. These actions risk eroding hard-fought disability rights and equity. The disability community must unite, remain vigilant, and advocate for inclusion and accessibility to preserve and advance progress under this administration.

Navigating DEI’s Shifting Landscape: Disability the Overlooked Cornerstone of Inclusion


Published: Tuesday January 14, 2025
wooden cutouts of men and women on both sides of a person with a disability in a wheelchair all connected laying in the palms of open hands

Disability remains the overlooked cornerstone of DEI, despite its unifying potential across identities. Alycia Anderson emphasizes centering disability to build inclusive cultures, confronting corporate rebranding and political headwinds. Progress requires prioritizing disability inclusion as a key pillar of equity and accessibility.

Intersectionality, Accessibility, Representation, and Self-Identification


Published: Wednesday October 16, 2024
the positive feedback effect loop intersetionality accessibility representation and self identification

The key to authentic disability inclusion lies in four interconnected principles: intersectionality, accessibility, representation, and self-identity (self-ID). Each element reinforces the others, creating a powerful feedback loop that drives progress. Intersectionality builds community solidarity by acknowledging overlapping identities. Accessibility fosters inclusive environments. Representation empowers through visibility, and self-ID encourages individuals to embrace their identities. Together, these principles advance disability inclusion, pushing society toward a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)


Published: Wednesday October 9, 2024
Alycia sitting on a bench with hands resting on her wheelchair looking to the left smiling

The workplace has been pivotal in my life & career, helping me uncover my strengths, push forward limits, challenge the status quo, and break down barriers. It’s where I’ve discovered my purpose, developed as a leader, and experienced the true impact of inclusion. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), celebrated each October, recognizing the contributions … read more… National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Disability Advocates Lead Positive Change Amid DEI Backlash


Published: Thursday May 30, 2024
women on one side men on the other d e i circled n the middle with a wheelchair disabled symbol above the circle

PBS NewsHour reports a nationwide DEI backlash with 25 states enacting 71 related laws, sparking debate on tolerance and academic freedom. Critics claim high costs and indoctrination, while advocates emphasize DEI’s importance in addressing inequities. Disability advocate Marty Anderson shares his perspective on DEI, highlighting the significance of inclusion and empathy derived from personal experience with disability. DEI aims to create a more just and inclusive society.

GAAD 2024 | Global Accessibility Awareness Day


Published: Thursday May 16, 2024
Alycia sitting in her wheelchair looking behind at her desk near a computer.

Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), observed annually on the third Thursday of May, promotes digital accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. It aims to raise awareness, promote inclusive design, provide education, and build community. Activities include workshops, webinars, and challenges. Recent advancements include WCAG 3.0, improved mobile accessibility, AI integration, updated legislation, corporate initiatives, and accessible VR/AR technologies. GAAD highlights the importance of accessibility and fosters a more inclusive digital world.

What is inclusive hiring? 8 best practices for high-volume hiring.


Published: Tuesday February 27, 2024
Image Description: Lockers of various colors with a title What is inclusive hiring? 8 best practices for high-volume hiring.

Inclusive hiring, crucial for high-volume recruitment, aims to attract diverse candidates. Strategies include reviewing biases, inclusive job postings, accommodation provision, accessible processes, diverse sourcing, bias training, and fostering an inclusive workplace. Alycia Anderson emphasizes the need for intentional inclusivity and ongoing evaluation of hiring success.