The Fifth Annual Disability Impact Awards Set to Illuminate Trailblazers in Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. – Disability Belongs™, a prominent nonprofit dedicated to systemic societal change and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities, is poised to host its highly anticipated fifth annual Disability Impact Awards on July 16th in the nation’s capital. This significant event, coinciding with Disability Pride Month, will serve as a vital platform to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of disabled advocates, activists, and unwavering allies who are forging a path toward a more inclusive and equitable world. The awards ceremony aims to spotlight individuals and organizations whose dedication and innovation are making an indelible mark on the disability community.

The Disability Impact Awards have established themselves as a cornerstone event, designed not only to honor past achievements but also to inspire future progress. Each year, the ceremony brings together a diverse spectrum of stakeholders, from grassroots activists to policy influencers, all united by a shared commitment to advancing disability rights and fostering a culture of genuine belonging. This year’s ceremony promises to be no different, with a distinguished lineup of honorees whose work exemplifies the power of advocacy, resilience, and transformative leadership.

Among the distinguished individuals to be recognized is Sarah Todd Hammer, a remarkable 24-year-old whose multifaceted achievements have garnered widespread acclaim. Hammer is a three-time published author, a sought-after speaker, a strategic consultant, and a burgeoning social media sensation, boasting an impressive online following of over 400,000 individuals. Through her authentic and engaging digital presence, Sarah Todd Hammer has become a powerful voice, candidly sharing her lived experiences as a disabled individual. Her platform serves as a crucial space for fostering greater awareness, dismantling misconceptions, and promoting a positive and empowering narrative surrounding disability. Hammer’s work embodies the essence of the Disability Impact Awards by demonstrating how personal narratives, amplified through modern communication channels, can catalyze significant societal shifts in perception and understanding.

Also slated for recognition is Mindy Henderson, a recognized leader and formidable advocate within the disability rights movement. As the Vice President of Disability Outreach and Empowerment at the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Henderson has dedicated her career to championing critical issues affecting the disability community. Her extensive advocacy efforts span a wide array of vital areas, including the pursuit of accessible air travel, equitable healthcare access, the principles of universal design, inclusive employment practices, and the advancement of adaptive and inclusive fashion and product design. Henderson’s comprehensive approach and unwavering commitment position her as a pivotal force driving progress and creating tangible opportunities for individuals with disabilities across various sectors. Her contributions underscore the importance of intersectional advocacy, recognizing that disability intersects with numerous aspects of daily life and societal engagement.

In addition to celebrating individual leaders, Disability Belongs™ will present the Champion for Social Impact Award to Ashurst Perkins Coie. This prestigious award acknowledges the law firm’s profound and enduring commitment to corporate social responsibility, philanthropy, and its consistent dedication to supporting vulnerable populations and those in need. The firm’s multifaceted pro bono work and community engagement initiatives have demonstrably aligned with the mission of advancing social justice and equity, making them a deserving recipient of this honor.

Furthermore, the Champion for Cultural Transformation Award will be bestowed upon an organization that has exhibited an exceptional commitment to advancing inclusion, representation, and dismantling systemic barriers. The recipient of this award, a key highlight of the evening, will be announced during the ceremony itself, adding an element of anticipation and surprise to the proceedings. This award underscores the growing recognition that cultural shifts, driven by organizational commitment and innovative practices, are fundamental to achieving a truly inclusive society.

Ariel Simms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Disability Belongs™, expressed profound enthusiasm for the upcoming event. "We are honored to bring together voices and visionaries from across the disability community to celebrate their profound contributions," Simms stated. "These awards are a testament to the power of advocacy, allyship, and authentic storytelling in driving societal change. Our honorees represent the very best of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose, and their work inspires us all to strive for a more just and equitable future." Simms’s statement highlights the core values that underpin Disability Belongs™’s mission and the significance of the awards in amplifying these critical messages.

The Disability Impact Awards trace their origins back five years to a growing need for a dedicated platform that specifically recognized and amplified the achievements of individuals and organizations within the disability community. Prior to the establishment of these awards, while advocacy efforts were ongoing, there was a perceived lack of a unified, high-profile event that consistently celebrated the successes and groundbreaking work being done. Disability Belongs™, founded on the principle that disability is an integral part of human diversity and that disabled individuals must lead the charge for systemic change, saw the opportunity to create such a platform. The inaugural awards ceremony was met with significant enthusiasm, validating the perceived need and setting the stage for annual recognition. Over the years, the event has grown in scope and influence, attracting greater media attention, attracting more nominations, and fostering deeper connections within the disability advocacy landscape. The increasing number of high-profile honorees and corporate sponsors reflects the growing recognition of the importance of disability inclusion and the tangible impact of the work being celebrated.

The broader implications of the Disability Impact Awards extend far beyond the celebratory nature of the evening. By spotlighting successful advocates and innovative organizations, the awards serve as a powerful catalyst for broader societal engagement. The recognition of individuals like Sarah Todd Hammer underscores the evolving landscape of advocacy, where digital platforms and authentic personal narratives are proving to be incredibly effective tools for raising awareness and fostering empathy. Hammer’s success, in particular, demonstrates the significant influence that disabled content creators can wield in shaping public perception and promoting disability pride among younger generations. Her ability to connect with a vast audience through relatable storytelling and positive messaging is a testament to the power of lived experience in driving social change.

Similarly, Mindy Henderson’s comprehensive advocacy work highlights the systemic nature of the challenges faced by the disability community. Her focus on areas ranging from air travel accessibility to inclusive product design illustrates the interconnectedness of various societal structures and the need for a holistic approach to achieving true inclusion. Henderson’s leadership at the MDA signifies the critical role that established organizations play in advocating for policy changes and empowering individuals with specific disabilities. Her work exemplifies how dedicated leadership within large institutions can translate into significant progress on the ground.

The awarding of the Champion for Social Impact Award to Ashurst Perkins Coie, a prominent law firm, signals a crucial trend: the increasing involvement of the corporate sector and professional services in advancing disability inclusion. This recognition highlights the understanding that legal expertise and corporate resources can be powerful assets in the fight for equal rights and opportunities. Such partnerships are vital for addressing complex legal and policy barriers that disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities. The firm’s commitment is not merely philanthropic but also strategic, recognizing that a more inclusive society benefits everyone.

The impending announcement of the Champion for Cultural Transformation Award recipient further emphasizes the importance of shifting societal attitudes and perceptions. This award acknowledges that true progress requires not only policy changes but also a fundamental transformation in how society views and values disability. Organizations that champion inclusive representation in media, arts, and culture, or that actively challenge ableist norms, play an indispensable role in creating a more welcoming and understanding world.

The event’s timing during Disability Pride Month adds another layer of significance. Disability Pride Month, celebrated annually in July, commemorates the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and serves as a time to celebrate the disability community, its history, its resilience, and its ongoing contributions to society. The Disability Impact Awards align perfectly with this spirit, providing a focal point for celebrating the achievements that embody the principles of disability pride and self-advocacy.

The economic implications of enhanced disability inclusion are also substantial. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, individuals with disabilities represent a significant, yet often underutilized, talent pool. Full participation of disabled individuals in the workforce can lead to increased innovation, economic growth, and a more robust economy. By celebrating advocates who champion employment and accessibility, the awards implicitly highlight the economic benefits of inclusion. Data from organizations like the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation consistently show that investing in accessibility and inclusive practices can yield significant returns, both socially and economically. For example, research has indicated that companies with strong disability inclusion initiatives often report higher revenues and profits.

The continued success and growth of the Disability Impact Awards are indicative of a broader societal awakening to the importance of disability rights and inclusion. As more individuals and organizations commit to these principles, the impact of events like these will continue to resonate, driving further progress and fostering a future where disability is not a barrier but a celebrated aspect of human diversity. The awards serve as a powerful reminder that while much progress has been made, the journey toward full inclusion is ongoing, and the dedication of advocates, activists, and allies remains indispensable.

Disability Belongs™’s commitment to advancing systemic change is reflected in its multifaceted approach, which includes policy advocacy, education, and community empowerment. The organization’s mission is to dismantle ableist structures and foster a society where individuals with disabilities are not only included but are also empowered to lead and thrive. The Disability Impact Awards are a crucial component of this mission, serving to inspire, motivate, and recognize those who are at the forefront of this transformative work.

For those interested in learning more about the Disability Impact Awards or to secure tickets for the July 16th ceremony, information is available at DisabilityBelongs.org/annual-awards. This platform offers comprehensive details about the event, including honoree profiles, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket purchasing options, ensuring accessibility for all interested parties.

Media inquiries, requests for media access to the event, or interview arrangements with Disability Belongs™ President and CEO Ariel Simms or honoree Mindy Henderson can be directed to Ashley Nyaley, Senior Director of Development and Communications, at [email protected] The organization is committed to facilitating transparent communication and ensuring that the stories of its honorees and the importance of its mission reach a wide audience.

About Disability Belongs™:
Disability Belongs™ stands as a testament to the power of a disability-led nonprofit organization. Driven by a diverse group of individuals with disabilities, the organization is fundamentally committed to reshaping societal perceptions and valuations of people with disabilities. Their work is dedicated to advancing policies and practices that not only empower but also create a more promising future for all individuals with disabilities. The core mission of Disability Belongs™ is to spearhead cultural and policy transformations, ensuring full representation and influence for the disability community, ultimately fostering a society that is more accessible, equitable, and genuinely inclusive.