Disability Belongs Announces Fifth Annual Disability Impact Awards to Celebrate Champions of Inclusion
Washington, D.C., July 13 – Disability Belongs, a leading disability-led nonprofit organization dedicated to systemic change and societal valuing of individuals with disabilities, is set to host its fifth annual Disability Impact Awards. The prestigious ceremony, scheduled for July 16th in the nation’s capital, coincides with the observance of Disability Pride Month. This landmark event will shine a spotlight on the exceptional achievements of disabled advocates, activists, and dedicated allies whose contributions are forging a more equitable and inclusive future for the disability community.
The Disability Impact Awards serve as a vital platform to recognize and celebrate individuals and organizations that are spearheading progress, championing inclusion, and inspiring transformative change. The event’s growing prominence underscores the increasing recognition of the disability rights movement and the crucial role of advocacy in shaping public policy and societal attitudes. This year’s ceremony is expected to draw a diverse assembly of leaders, innovators, and advocates from across the disability landscape.
Among the distinguished honorees this year is Sarah Todd Hammer, a dynamic 24-year-old who has already established herself as a prolific voice in the disability community. Hammer is a three-time published author, an influential speaker, a sought-after consultant, and a significant presence on social media, boasting a following of over 400,000 individuals. Through her engaging online platforms, Hammer candidly shares her lived experiences as a disabled individual, effectively fostering awareness, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting a positive and empowering narrative around disability. Her work exemplifies the power of personal storytelling in driving broader societal understanding and acceptance. Data from Pew Research Center consistently shows that social media platforms are increasingly becoming primary sources of information and community for various demographic groups, including those within the disability community, highlighting the reach and impact of individuals like Hammer.
The awards will also honor Mindy Henderson, a recognized leader in disability rights and a pivotal figure in advocacy for accessible and inclusive environments. As Vice President of Disability Outreach and Empowerment at the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Henderson has been instrumental in advancing critical issues such as accessible air travel, healthcare equity, universal design principles, employment opportunities, and inclusive fashion and product design. Her multifaceted advocacy efforts have made her a formidable force in creating tangible progress and expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Henderson’s work aligns with a broader trend towards greater corporate and organizational responsibility in disability inclusion, a concept gaining traction as businesses recognize the economic and social benefits of diverse workforces and accessible products. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability, representing a significant consumer base and talent pool that remains largely underserved and underrepresented.
In addition to celebrating individual champions, Disability Belongs will present two significant organizational awards. The Champion for Social Impact Award will be bestowed upon Ashurst Perkins Coie, a law firm acknowledged for its enduring dedication to corporate social responsibility and its consistent support for those in need. This award recognizes the firm’s commitment to leveraging its resources and expertise to contribute positively to society. Furthermore, the Champion for Cultural Transformation Award will acknowledge an organization that has demonstrated a profound commitment to advancing inclusion and representation. The recipient of this esteemed award will be revealed at the ceremony, adding an element of anticipation to the event. The inclusion of corporate partners in such awards signifies a growing understanding within the business sector of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as not just a social imperative but also a strategic advantage. Studies by McKinsey & Company have repeatedly shown that companies with diverse leadership teams and workforces tend to outperform their less diverse counterparts financially.
Ariel Simms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Disability Belongs, expressed profound honor and 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." Simms’ sentiment reflects the core mission of Disability Belongs, which is to foster a society where disability is not a barrier but an integral part of human diversity, leading to equitable opportunities and full participation for all. The organization’s work often involves policy advocacy, public education campaigns, and fostering dialogue between policymakers, corporations, and the disability community.
The Disability Impact Awards have a growing legacy, building upon four previous successful ceremonies. Since its inception, the awards have become a significant annual gathering, attracting national attention and providing a platform for critical conversations about disability inclusion. The event’s consistent growth in attendance and the caliber of honorees reflect the increasing urgency and momentum of the disability rights movement. Past recipients have included prominent figures in policy, technology, arts, and activism, all contributing to a richer understanding and implementation of disability inclusion across various sectors. The increasing focus on intersectionality within the disability rights movement, acknowledging how disability intersects with race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, is also expected to be a theme subtly woven throughout this year’s event and its honorees.
The choice of July for the awards ceremony is deliberate, aligning with Disability Pride Month. This month, observed annually in July, commemorates the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed into law on July 26, 1990. Disability Pride Month is a period of celebration, activism, and reflection, aimed at fostering a sense of community and shared identity among people with disabilities, and educating the public about disability rights and issues. The ADA, a landmark civil rights law, prohibits discrimination based on disability and has been instrumental in creating more accessible public spaces, workplaces, and services. Disability Belongs’ hosting of the awards during this month amplifies the significance of the event and its connection to this crucial historical milestone.
The implications of these awards extend beyond the recognition of individuals and organizations. They serve as a catalyst for continued dialogue, collaboration, and action. By highlighting the achievements of those at the forefront of disability advocacy, Disability Belongs inspires others to engage in similar efforts and encourages broader societal commitment to inclusion. The awards also provide valuable networking opportunities for advocates, policymakers, and community members, fostering a collaborative environment conducive to innovation and systemic change. The ongoing need for such platforms is underscored by persistent disparities faced by people with disabilities, including higher rates of unemployment, lower educational attainment, and limited access to healthcare and community services, as documented by numerous government and non-governmental reports.
For those interested in attending and supporting the cause, information on the Disability Impact Awards, including ticket purchases, is available on the Disability Belongs website at DisabilityBelongs.org/annual-awards. The organization encourages widespread participation to demonstrate collective support for the disability community and its allies.
Media inquiries regarding the Disability Impact Awards, requests for media access, or interview arrangements with Disability Belongs President and CEO Ariel Simms or honoree Mindy Henderson, should be directed to Ashley Nyaley, Senior Director of Development and Communications, at [email protected]
About Disability Belongs
Disability Belongs is a non-profit organization founded and led by individuals with diverse disabilities. Its core mission is to effect systemic change in societal perceptions and valuations of people with disabilities. The organization actively works to advance policies and practices that empower individuals with disabilities, fostering a future where they can thrive. Disability Belongs is committed to driving cultural and policy transformations to ensure the full representation and influence of the disability community, thereby contributing to a more accessible, equitable, and inclusive society for all. The organization’s approach is multi-faceted, encompassing advocacy, education, community building, and direct support for initiatives that promote disability inclusion. Their work is grounded in the belief that disability is a natural and valuable part of human diversity.
