Disability Belongs Announces Fifth Annual Disability Impact Awards to Celebrate Trailblazers in Advocacy and Inclusion

Washington, D.C. – July 13 – Disability Belongs, a prominent disability-led nonprofit organization dedicated to systemic societal change and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities, is set to host its fifth annual Disability Impact Awards ceremony on July 16th in Washington, D.C. This significant event, coinciding with the observance of Disability Pride Month, will recognize and celebrate the profound contributions of disabled advocates, activists, and their dedicated allies who are instrumental in advancing the rights, inclusion, and overall well-being of the disability community.

The Disability Impact Awards have become a cornerstone event, providing a vital platform to spotlight individuals and organizations that are actively driving progress, fostering environments of genuine inclusion, and inspiring transformative change within society’s perceptions and practices concerning disability. This year’s ceremony is particularly noteworthy for its diverse array of honorees, each representing a unique facet of the ongoing movement towards a more equitable world.

Among the distinguished individuals being honored is Sarah Todd Hammer, a dynamic 24-year-old whose multifaceted career exemplifies modern advocacy. Hammer is a three-time published author, an influential speaker, a sought-after consultant, and a burgeoning social media personality with an impressive online following exceeding 400,000 individuals. Through her engaging and vibrant digital presence, Sarah Todd Hammer shares her lived experiences as a disabled individual, adeptly cultivating awareness, promoting understanding, and fostering a positive and empowering narrative for a broad audience. Her work on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok has been credited with destigmatizing disability and providing relatable content that resonates deeply with both disabled individuals and their allies. Hammer’s advocacy often focuses on themes of self-acceptance, accessible design in everyday life, and the intersectionality of disability with other identities.

The event will also celebrate Mindy Henderson, a highly respected figure in the realm of disability rights and a recognized leader in her field. As the Vice President of Disability Outreach and Empowerment at the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Henderson has dedicated her career to championing crucial issues that affect the disability community. Her extensive advocacy efforts span a wide spectrum of critical areas, including the fight for accessible air travel, improvements in healthcare accessibility and quality, the implementation of universal design principles in built and digital environments, the promotion of inclusive employment opportunities, and the advancement of adaptive and inclusive fashion and product design. Henderson’s tireless work has positioned her as a pivotal force, driving significant progress and creating new avenues of opportunity for individuals with disabilities. Her leadership at the MDA has been instrumental in developing innovative programs that support individuals and families affected by neuromuscular diseases, while her broader advocacy work influences policy and corporate practices across various sectors.

In addition to honoring individual trailblazers, Disability Belongs will present the Champion for Social Impact Award to the esteemed law firm Ashurst Perkins Coie. This award acknowledges the firm’s sustained and significant commitment to corporate social responsibility, particularly its dedication to philanthropic endeavors and its consistent support for underserved communities, including the disability community. The firm’s pro bono work and financial contributions have demonstrably advanced the cause of disability rights and accessibility. Their involvement often includes legal advocacy for disability-related issues, support for disability-focused organizations, and the development of inclusive internal policies.

Furthermore, the prestigious Champion for Cultural Transformation Award will be bestowed upon an organization that has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing inclusion and representation within its sphere of influence. The recipient of this award, which signifies a profound impact on shifting societal attitudes and fostering a more inclusive culture, is slated to be announced live at the event, adding an element of anticipation and excitement to the proceedings. This award aims to recognize entities that have made substantial strides in challenging stereotypes, promoting authentic representation, and embedding inclusive practices into their core operations and public engagement.

Ariel Simms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Disability Belongs, expressed her enthusiasm and commitment to 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. At Disability Belongs, we believe that true progress is achieved when we actively recognize and amplify the efforts of those who are leading the charge towards a more just and equitable society. This event is a crucial part of that mission, not only celebrating past achievements but also inspiring future action."

The Disability Impact Awards ceremony is more than just an awards presentation; it is a convergence of advocates, policymakers, community leaders, and allies, all united by a shared vision for a world where disability is not a barrier but a valued aspect of human diversity. The event serves as a vital networking opportunity and a platform for dialogue, fostering collaboration and galvanizing further action within the disability rights movement.

Background and Context:
The Disability Impact Awards were established five years ago by Disability Belongs as part of its broader strategy to elevate the voices and achievements of the disability community. The organization, founded on the principle that "Disability Belongs," operates with a mission to foster systemic change in societal perceptions and valuations of people with disabilities. This involves advocating for policies and practices that empower individuals with disabilities, ensuring their full representation and influence in all aspects of society. The annual awards ceremony has grown in stature and significance, becoming a key event during Disability Pride Month, which is celebrated every July to commemorate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to honor the ongoing struggle for disability rights and inclusion.

Supporting Data and Broader Implications:
The recognition of individuals and organizations at the Disability Impact Awards carries significant weight in the broader context of disability advocacy. According to recent studies, while progress has been made, significant disparities persist for people with disabilities across various domains. For instance, the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities remains substantially higher than for their non-disabled counterparts, often exacerbated by inaccessible workplaces and discriminatory hiring practices. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics consistently shows this gap, highlighting the critical need for continued advocacy in employment and workplace inclusion.

Similarly, accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and digital environments continues to be a challenge, impacting the daily lives and opportunities of millions. The work championed by honorees like Mindy Henderson directly addresses these systemic issues, pushing for legislative changes and corporate responsibility. The increasing influence of digital platforms, as demonstrated by Sarah Todd Hammer’s success, underscores the evolving landscape of advocacy and its potential to reach wider audiences, thereby challenging ingrained societal biases.

The inclusion of corporate partners like Ashurst Perkins Coie in the awards also signifies a growing recognition among businesses of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, not just as a social imperative but as a strategic advantage. Their commitment reflects a broader trend where companies are increasingly investing in disability inclusion initiatives, recognizing the talent and innovation that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce. The Champion for Cultural Transformation Award, in particular, seeks to incentivize and highlight organizations that are leading this cultural shift, setting benchmarks for others to follow.

The implications of these awards extend beyond mere recognition. They serve as powerful testimonials that can inspire further investment in disability inclusion, encourage policy reforms, and foster greater public awareness and support. By celebrating success stories, Disability Belongs not only honors the present but also shapes the future of disability advocacy, reinforcing the message that a more inclusive society benefits everyone. The continued growth and impact of the Disability Impact Awards are indicative of the sustained momentum within the disability rights movement and the increasing recognition of its vital importance.

The organization encourages the public to join in celebrating Disability Pride Month and the remarkable individuals and organizations that are actively shaping a more inclusive and equitable world.

For those interested in learning more about the Disability Impact Awards or to secure tickets for the event, please visit DisabilityBelongs.org/annual-awards.

Media Inquiries and Interviews:
For further information, to request media access to the Disability Impact Awards, or to arrange an interview with Disability Belongs President and CEO Ariel Simms or Disability Impact Awards honoree Mindy Henderson, interested parties are directed to contact Ashley Nyaley, Senior Director of Development and Communications, at [email protected]

About Disability Belongs:
Disability Belongs is a diverse, disability-led nonprofit organization committed to driving systemic change in how society perceives and values individuals with disabilities. The organization actively works to advance policies and practices that empower people with disabilities, fostering a future where they can thrive. Its core mission is to catalyze cultural and policy transformations that ensure the full representation and influence of people with disabilities, thereby creating a more accessible, equitable, and inclusive society for all. Disability Belongs operates on the fundamental belief that disability is an integral part of human diversity and that its inclusion enriches communities and strengthens society.