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.
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.
The Rollettes Experience is a transformative event empowering women with disabilities through dance. I was honored to return as a speaker and panelist, joined by my twin sister, Regina, and niece, Ella. Leading sessions and witnessing Ella’s inclusion highlighted the event’s unique community spirit. The experience reminded me of childhood memories, underscoring the importance of belonging. Hosted by Chelsie Hill, the event featured dance, panels, and seminars, fostering growth and connection.
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.
Alycia Anderson, a distinguished alumna of California State University, Chico, returned to receive the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Communication and Education. Despite her prior commitments, a separate event was arranged to honor her achievements in diversity, equity, and accessibility. Engaging with students and faculty, Alycia emphasized the importance of inclusive environments, fostering collaborations and initiatives within the university. Her journey from student to advocate exemplifies the transformative power of education and community support, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations.
Alycia Anderson hasn’t always had a stage, but she’s always had her voice. From a young age, Anderson (Physical Education, ’05), has asserted herself by speaking up and living her core belief: she deserves to be included, just like everyone else. Now she is included and is a distinguished alumna, motivational speaker, and CEO living out her dreams.
Purple Tuesday highlights the importance of improving the shopping experience for disabled consumers. It’s a call for businesses to prioritize accessibility, from store designs to user-friendly websites and products that cater to the needs of people with disabilities. Purple Tuesday advocates for equal shopping experiences, ensuring that every consumer feels valued and included. Businesses are encouraged to adopt inclusive practices, making accessibility a standard practice rather than an afterthought.
I support Equitable Access to vote! People with disabilities face a ton of barriers in Voting Accessibility. Barriers such as a total lack of Accessible Polling locations and machines or restrictions on absentee voting practices. Imagine making your way to vote and there is no access to enter the polling station with your assistive devices such as your wheelchair or … read more… Voting Accessibility
