Things to Know

Disability Doesn’t Define Ability, Opportunity Does. Here’s Why It Matters for Business


Published: Tuesday February 25, 2025
Image description: Alycia sitting in her wheelchair on a panel speaking at a conference wearing a white top and red and blue checked pants looking out at the audience. With a quote that reads "Disability doesn’t define ability—opportunity does. Lets explore..."

FACT: Companies that embrace disability inclusion see 28% higher revenue, 30% higher profit margins, and double the net income than those that don’t. (Accenture, 2018) FACT: Ability thrives where opportunity exists. FACT: Disability isn’t a limitation but barriers absolutely are. The real measure of ability isn’t found in what someone can’t do, but in the … read more… Disability Doesn’t Define Ability, Opportunity Does. Here’s Why It Matters for Business

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.

Disabled Leaders Drive Innovation – Here’s Why Your Company Should Pay Attention


Published: Friday January 31, 2025
An pink and green envelope with a sheet of paper popping out that reads " Hire, listen to, and follow disabled leaders"

In business, one of the most transformational actions you can take is to hire, listen to, and follow disabled leaders. This challenges the outdated notion that disability limits potential, it doesn’t. In fact, it represents one of the greatest untapped sources of growth and innovation. For organizations ready to lead, here are key principles I … read more… Disabled Leaders Drive Innovation – Here’s Why Your Company Should Pay Attention

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)

Prioritizing disability inclusion in DEI strategies is absolutely crucial in 2024


Published: Friday January 12, 2024
Image of blue book laying on a table that says DEI Strategy with ability symbols above it such as a wheelchair, a woman and a man in varying colors

In 2024, prioritizing disability inclusion in DEI strategies is crucial for fostering truly equitable workplaces. Addressing systemic barriers and embedding accessibility into workplace culture leads to diverse environments where all individuals can thrive. Disability inclusion should not be an afterthought but a central focus in all diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. It’s essential for organizations to implement actionable plans that elevate access and opportunity for disabled people.

#PurpleTuesday


Published: Tuesday November 7, 2023
alycia checking out at a cashier wearing a rainbow halloween costume

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.

Disabling Ableism


Published: Wednesday May 3, 2023
Alycia wearing pink sitting in wheelchair holding black picture frame that says disabling ableism the modern pathway to inclusion.

Alycia Anderson dives into the fight against ableism, exploring how we can dismantle societal barriers and challenge misconceptions about disability. In this piece, she advocates for shifting the narrative surrounding disabilities, promoting inclusivity and equality for all. Alycia emphasizes the power of collective action in reshaping mindsets and creating a more accessible world where everyone can thrive.

Accessibility in the workplace


Published: Tuesday April 11, 2023
heading of image says did you know alycia on stage with slide that says 98 percent of worlds top websites are not fully accessible

Creating an accessible workplace is vital for inclusion. Alycia Anderson outlines ways to promote accessibility, such as providing accommodations, conducting audits, and educating employees on disability awareness. By ensuring physical and digital spaces are accessible, employers foster a more diverse, innovative workforce. Accessibility is not just a legal responsibility but also an ethical one that promotes equality and inclusivity for all employees.

“Can I say disability?”


Published: Monday April 10, 2023
ID: Testimonial sent to Alycia that reads: Hi Alycia. Happy Friday! I wanted to share with you that, because of your speech and message at the conference, I've started using the word "disability" when speaking to teachers and parents. This is something new for me because, like many people, I was tip toe-ing around the word, not realizing that's actually perpetuating the negative stigma around disabilities.

In “Can I Say Disability?” Alycia Anderson explores the power of language in fostering inclusion and addressing ableism. She emphasizes that using terms like “disability” should be normalized to promote openness, challenge stigma, and encourage respectful, inclusive conversations. Understanding the language we use impacts our societal perceptions and the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.

This Wheelchair Barbie is FINALLY getting representation!


Published: Sunday April 9, 2023
this Barbie is finally getting representation image of alycia lifting arms up in wheelchair behind logo of Barbie

Mattel’s creation of a wheelchair Barbie marks a significant step in representation for disabled individuals. This new Barbie reflects the growing demand for inclusivity in toys, offering children with disabilities a doll that mirrors their own experiences. The move aims to empower kids with disabilities, providing them with visibility and a sense of belonging. It’s a positive, forward-thinking representation in toy culture, challenging outdated stereotypes and promoting acceptance.