On March 4th, Marty and I traveled to Dallas, Texas, for the highly anticipated Women’s Empowerment celebration at Southwest Airlines Co. This event, a cornerstone of Southwest’s annual Women@SWA initiative, was all about elevating women, and I was honored to not only represent women but also bring the critical conversation of advancing disability rights in air travel and addressing the evolving landscape of accessibility and inclusion into the discussion. Being part of this event was an incredible opportunity to advocate for change and celebrate the power of inclusion in every aspect of life.
As the second of three keynote speakers, I delivered my “Heart of Inclusion” speech to an audience of over 900 in-person attendees. The event was also livestreamed, allowing thousands of Southwest Airlines employees across the country to tune in virtually, further amplifying the reach and impact of my message.
A Journey of Recognition and Warmth
From the moment we boarded our Southwest Airlines flight, Marty and I experienced firsthand the warmth and recognition that set the tone for this trip. Word quickly spread among the airline staff about the purpose of my travel, and the Southwest team went above and beyond to celebrate our mission. Both on the way to Dallas and on the return flight, I was met with enthusiasm and support, reinforcing Southwest’s commitment to inclusion and diversity.
This event was years in the making. Originally booked two years prior, Southwest Airlines had initially hoped to host me in 2024, but due to my commitment to speaking at Humana’s Women’s History Month celebration, we had to postpone until 2025. The anticipation only heightened the excitement surrounding the occasion, making my keynote even more impactful.
A Five-Star Experience at The Omni Hotel
Southwest Airlines ensured that Marty and I had an unforgettable experience in Dallas. Our accommodations at the luxurious Omni Hotel placed us on the top floor, offering breathtaking views of downtown Dallas. With a quick turnaround for this trip, we used the peaceful setting to make final preparations for my speech, refining a custom version of “Heart of Inclusion” that directly addressed travel, accessibility, and empowerment.
Despite the tight schedule, we took the opportunity to soak in a bit of Dallas culture. A visit to the JFK Memorial and a brief downtown stroll provided a meaningful pause after the event, adding a personal touch to our journey.
A Keynote That Inspired and Transformed
On March 5th, I took the stage to deliver a message that resonated deeply with the audience. My speech not only addressed women’s empowerment but also shed light on the challenges and opportunities in making air travel more accessible for people with disabilities. My goal was to inspire change, and the response was overwhelming.
Perhaps the most profound impact came from the women who approached me after my keynote, sharing personal stories and self-identifying their disabilities. Many expressed how my message gave them the confidence to embrace their identities and advocate for their own needs in professional and personal spaces. Some even for the first time in their lives. These moments underscored the real, lasting change that my work continues to inspire.
A Momentous Coincidence
Adding to the significance of this trip, I was simultaneously preparing for another milestone—the launch of Anthony Kennedy Shriver on my podcast, Pushing Forward with Alycia. The timing was serendipitous, as both events aligned with my broader mission of fostering inclusion and empowerment in all aspects of life.
Reflections on a Powerful Event
The Women Empowered event at Southwest Airlines was a true testament to the power of community, advocacy, and corporate commitment to diversity and inclusion. As one attendee shared in a post reflecting on the event:
Each year, I glean valuable insights on becoming a better ally, and this year was no exception. Noteworthy speakers like Alycia Anderson sharing her journey and challenges left a lasting impression. The panel discussion, expertly moderated by Aileen Furlong Caffrey, featured compelling stories and wisdom from inspiring women.
~ Women’ Empowermen t Women@SWA Event Attendee
Being part of this event was more than just a speaking engagement—it was a catalyst for meaningful conversations and real-world change. My journey to Dallas may have been brief, but the impact of my words and presence will undoubtedly continue to inspire for years to come.
As Marty and I boarded our Southwest Airlines flight home, we carried with us not just memories of a successful event but also the reaffirmation that our mission—to champion inclusion, break barriers, and empower others—continues to make a difference, one speech, one conversation, and one flight at a time.