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Onward Together: Celebrating Disability Pride Month with SUSD’s 2024-25 Kick-Off Event

Published: Wednesday July 31, 2024
alycia inset smiling with her arms opened wide over the backdrop crowd at the s u s d kick off event at alex g spanos center on the university of pacific campus in stockton california

Rising to the Occasion: Keynote Highlights from SUSD’s Kick-Off Celebration

I was thrilled to be invited to Stockton Unified School District (SUSD) as the keynote speaker for their All Staff Kick-Off event, themed “ONWARD – Imagine the Possibilities.” This event, held at the University of the Pacific’s Alex G Spanos Center, was a grand affair with over 4,000 SUSD staff members in attendance, eager to start the 2024-25 school year with renewed energy and optimism.

alycia speaking to the superintendent of s u s d on stage at the kick off celebration
alycia speaking to the superintendent of s u s d at the kick off celebration
alycia sitting with board members of the stockton unfied school district on stage at s u s d kick off event

Empowering Educators at Stockton Unified

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rodriguez set an inspiring tone with exciting updates: the highest graduation rates yet, reduced absenteeism, and enhanced safety measures for students. The day was filled with student performances, including marching bands, cheerleader squads, dance teams, and mariachi bands, showcasing the vibrant talent within the district. It was clear that the SUSD community is deeply invested in creating a dynamic and supportive environment for their students.

Following remarks from Tama Brisbane, Stockton’s Poet Laureate Emerita and Executive Director of With Our Words, Inc., I took the stage to deliver my Heart of Inclusion keynote. Tama, renowned for her work in youth development and leadership through literary and performing arts, had already inspired the crowd with her powerful message and extensive contributions to the community. Her presence underscored the importance of creativity and youth voice, setting a high bar for my presentation.

alex g spanos center at university of pacific pre event as stadium is filling in
image of the crowd in front of the stage at the s u s d kick off event
alycia on stage at s u s d kick off event with her arms in a v above her head

From the Stage to the Heart: My Impactful Speech at SUSD’s 2024 All Staff Kick-Off

Although my speaking time was unexpectedly shortened from 40 minutes to just 20, I embraced the challenge and delivered my keynote with passion and urgency. The reduced time slot added a layer of pressure, but it was invigorating to see the audience’s enthusiastic response. My message on disability inclusion resonated deeply, and I was honored to receive rounds of applause from the large crowd.

alycia close up smiling into the camera

This event marked my eighth appearance for Disability Pride Month, with one more engagement scheduled to close out Disability Pride Month with Etsy the following day. Being part of such a large and engaged audience was a highlight of the month, and it was gratifying to celebrate Disability Pride with such a dedicated group of educators and staff.

alycia marty and kamni del barba at s u s d kick off celebration

Thank you to SUSD for the incredible opportunity and for making disability inclusion a central theme of your event. Let’s continue to champion diversity and inclusion, and make every possibility a reality. Here’s to a successful and impactful year ahead!