Disability Pride: Beyond the Celebratory Facade

A wheelchair user wearing a superhero cape navigates a city street filled with obstacles like stairs and debris. The cityscape includes tall buildings, narrow doorways, and inaccessible paths.

Disability is like any other complex relationship, filled with highs and lows. Some days are easy, some days are challenging, and some days we triumph over societal barriers—lack of access, accommodations, empathy, or compassion. And then there are days when we’re simply too exhausted to fight and need time to recoup. We don’t owe anyone 24/7 optimism, even during Disability Pride Month, but that doesn’t mean our lives hold any less value.

My entrepreneurial father Craig Honick once told me, “Advocate so well you put yourself out of business.” It’s a lofty goal I still think about often. Ideally, we’d live in a world where disability awareness is ingrained in our societal fabric. But we’re not there yet. So, we fight. The progress we’ve made excites us, but the fight is exhausting, and we feel it deeply. As the calendar flips to a new month, we’ll still be here, fighting, and we’ll still be disabled.

Throughout this month, I and other advocates have spotlighted daily examples of our community’s struggle for basic equity and inclusion. But awareness without action is empty. Now that you’re aware of the struggles, what are you going to do? Too often, our voices are drowned out by our non-disabled peers. So here’s our ask: pass the mic when you can, amplify our stories, and when you see something wrong, speak up. We need your allyship not just in July, but all year long.

Emily Ladau put it best on the latest episode of The Accessible Stall podcast: “Sometimes I just don’t feel like practicing [Disability Pride]. I’m exhausted.” This sentiment resonates deeply. Pride in our disability is indeed an ongoing practice, a muscle that needs stretching. Awareness is step one. What will you do to be a better ally once the spotlight dims?

Here are some actionable steps to support disability advocacy and inclusion:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the issues facing the disability community and share this knowledge with those around you.

• Amplify Disabled Voices: Use your platform to highlight the stories and experiences of disabled individuals. Folks like Kristen Parisi, Tiffany A. Yu, MSc, Alexa Heinrich, Marisa Hamamoto, Margaux Joffe, CPACC, 🦻 Meryl Evans, CPACC (deaf), Keely Cat-Wells, Julie Harris, Jamie Shields, Catarina Rivera, MSEd, MPH, CPACC, Donna Cruz Jones, Sheri Byrne-Haber (disabled) and so many others who do amazing work.

• Advocate for Accessibility: Push for accessible practices in your workplace, community, and beyond. Accessibility benefits everyone.

• Offer Genuine Support: Ask disabled people what support looks like for them and follow through.

• Speak Up: When you see discrimination or inaccessibility, don’t stay silent. Use your voice to advocate for change.

Let’s move beyond just awareness. Let’s take action together to create a more inclusive and equitable world for all. Your allyship matters every day.

Piecing It Together: A Story of Self-Discovery and Disability Awareness

A festive indoor celebration scene for the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The centerpiece is a large two-tiered cake decorated with the Disability Parking Symbol in blue. The top of the cake features lit candles and large number "34" candles. The cake is inscribed with the message "Happy 34th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act." The background is adorned with colorful balloons and streamers, creating a joyful and vibrant party atmosphere.

As we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, I want to share a story close to my heart. It's about my best friend, who, in her early thirties, has only recently come to realize she's been disabled for much of her life. Her journey of self-discovery is a testament to the complex and unique paths we each take to understand our own disabilities.

Growing up, she was that quirky, clumsy teenager who fell down all the time. Friends joked that someone needed to be nearby to catch her, and frequent ER visits were chalked up to her being "accident prone." High heels? A fashion no-go because of her wobbly ankles. Gym class? A nightmare, especially when a heart condition—misdiagnosed for years—made sustained exercise impossible.

Her life was a series of "quirks" that never quite added up. Hypermobile joints, ADHD symptoms, and a heart that often felt like it was drowning were all dismissed as part of her "unique charm." It wasn't until her mid-twenties that the pieces started falling into place with proper diagnoses: hypermobility, inappropriate sinus tachycardia, and an ongoing assessment for ADHD.

Reflecting on her journey, she realized how internalized ableism and a lack of confidence about what "counts" as a disability had prevented her from embracing her disabled identity. She had tried to fit into the mold of the manic pixie dream girl, cultivating her issues as endearing quirks rather than recognizing them as signs of her disabilities.

Dating, too, was fraught with challenges. She constantly worried about keeping up with potential partners who enjoyed activities like hiking and running—activities her body couldn't always handle. This anxiety stemmed from societal perceptions of disability hierarchies and the pressure to be "normal."

Her story is a powerful reminder that disability journeys can begin at any time and are often unexpected. Understanding disability through formal or informal diagnosis provides a unique lens and vocabulary to better understand oneself. It's a journey of discovery, relief, and pride.

On this anniversary of the ADA, let's celebrate not only those who fought for our rights but also those just beginning to understand and embrace their disabilities. Their stories are vital in the ongoing fight for diversity, equity, inclusion, and access.

The Power of Words: Trump's Harsh Views vs. Biden's Compassion

A disabled parking logo is depicted with blood dripping down, symbolizing the erroneous belief that disabled people should die. The scene is a dark and eerie, with the surrounding environment having a grim and foreboding atmosphere, including dark, leafless trees and a misty background.

I can’t stop thinking about President Biden’s address to the nation last night—his first since deciding to exit the 2024 race. His speech was filled with humanity and a focus on inclusion, qualities that starkly contrast with sentiments expressed by Donald Trump, as revealed in a recent TIME Magazine article by Fred Trump III.

Biden’s words from the Oval Office were profound: “We have to decide: Do we still believe in honesty, decency, respect, freedom, justice, and democracy? In this moment, we can see those we disagree with not as enemies but as fellow Americans.” This message of unity and respect is essential, especially as we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA, passed under the George H.W. Bush administration, is more contested than ever in today’s political climate. I’m not sure it would pass Congress in 2024.

Contrast this with the shocking statements from Donald Trump, as recounted by his nephew Fred Trump III. Fred’s article reveals a chilling disregard for disabled people. President Trump reportedly said at the height of COVID-19, “The shape they’re in, all the expenses, maybe those kinds of people should just die,” in reference to his own blood. These words are not just hurtful; they are a stark reminder of how far we still have to go in fighting for the rights and dignity of all Americans.

Biden’s commitment to disability rights has been evident throughout his administration. His support for updates to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act is a critical step forward. “The federal government has an obligation to ensure that its services are accessible to people with disabilities, including its websites and technology,” said Senator Bob Casey, co-sponsor of the proposed updates. This legislation aims to make federal technology accessible to all Americans, ensuring that no one is left behind.

I use a wheelchair. I handle a service dog. I leverage assistive technology to navigate the web due to my visual impairment. These updates are not just necessary; they are vital. It’s not just about physical barriers; it’s about breaking down attitudinal ones as well.

Biden’s words remind us that we are all in this together: “We are a great nation because we are a good people...The power’s in your hands. The idea of America lies in your hands. You just have to keep faith.” In contrast, Trump’s comments reflect a divisiveness that undermines the progress we’ve made and the values we stand for.

As we approach this significant anniversary of the ADA, let’s remember the work that still needs to be done. Let’s continue to fight for a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, has equal access to opportunities and resources. When given the respect and dignity we deserve, we not only thrive, we persevere. The only thing that needs to die is ableism.

My Uncle Donald Trump Told Me Disabled Americans Like My Son ‘Should Just Die’

The Hidden Biases of AI: What Disabled Job Seekers Need to Know

An individual stands in front of a large, illuminated 'AI' sign, surrounded by futuristic digital graphics and data displays, symbolizing the integration of artificial intelligence in modern technology.

Today, I’m diving into something that's been on my mind a lot lately: the role of artificial intelligence in hiring. AI has completely changed how we hire, making things quicker and more efficient than ever before. But as we jump on the AI bandwagon, we also need to talk about its potential downsides, especially when it comes to disabled candidates.

AI tools, like ChatGPT, have made hiring a lot smoother. They can zip through resumes, spotlight the good stuff, and flag any issues, making HR's job a lot easier. According to Bloomberg’s Sarah Green Carmichael, “Nearly half of recent hires used AI to apply for jobs, according to a survey by Resume Builder.” This is pretty huge, right? But let’s not kid ourselves—AI has its flaws.

A recent article by Gus Alexiou in Forbes highlighted an experiment by University of Washington researchers that found AI tools could be biased against resumes that mention disability. They compared a standard CV with six different versions, each highlighting different disability-related achievements. The results were pretty shocking: ChatGPT only ranked the disability-modified CVs higher than the control one 25% of the time. This means many qualified disabled candidates might be overlooked.

Commenting on the UW project, lead author Kate Glazko said, “Ranking resumes with AI is starting to proliferate, yet there’s not much research behind whether it’s safe and effective…. For a disabled job seeker, there’s always this question when you submit a resume of whether you should include disability credentials. I think disabled people consider that even when humans are the reviewers.” These types of biases often prevent disclosure of disability in the workplace, in all aspects—from being a candidate to an employee. Both humans and AI still have inherent biases that must be accounted for, and that starts with awareness and diverse perspectives in looking at the data.

This is where human oversight comes in. AI can help with hiring, but it shouldn’t replace human judgment. It’s like using a calculator—you need to understand the math first to know if the calculator’s answer is right. We still need humans to ensure that the AI’s decisions make sense. And even then, nothing is foolproof.

Survey data showed that many job seekers still needed to tweak their AI-generated content to avoid sounding like a robot, with 46% saying they edited the output “some” and only 1% not editing it at all. So, while AI is a handy tool, we can’t trust it blindly—whether you’re an applicant or a hiring manager.

As we move forward, we need to balance the speed and efficiency of AI with the essential human touch. Using AI as a tool rather than a replacement will help us create hiring practices that truly value the contributions of disabled candidates.

ChatGPT Is Biased Against Resumes Mentioning Disability, Research Shows

Snapshots of Service: Pico's Dedication Amidst a Career of Change

Pico stands behind the American flag for his professional portrait at the US Department of Labor

As I sit at my desk, the hum of assistive technology filling the room, I'm reminded of the many challenges and triumphs I've faced as a disability advocate and federal employee. My early days at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) saw me promoting the newly minted Obamacare, a transformative period in our nation's healthcare landscape. Later, at the USPTO, I was fiercely protecting intellectual property, ensuring the sanctity of innovation and creativity. Today, I promote the impactful mission of the U.S. Department of Labor, protecting our nation's workforce.

Yet, amidst these professional milestones, there's been a constant, loyal presence by my side for the past decade - my service dog, Pico.

September marks National Service Dog Month, a time to honor the incredible animals that transform lives daily. Pico, a graduate of Canine Companions®, joined me after my tenure at HHS. As a wheelchair user with a visual impairment, navigating the world can be daunting. But with Pico, every challenge becomes surmountable. His unwavering support, especially in the workplace, has been nothing short of amazing.

Invisible disabilities, like my chronic pain, often go unnoticed. But Pico sees it all. He senses my discomfort, offering solace with a nuzzle or a comforting presence by my side. He's more than just a service dog; he's a confidant, a protector, and a never-ending source of comedy.

Recently, thanks to the talented Shawn Moore, Pico and I had a moment that encapsulated our journey. As the camera clicked, capturing Pico in his full professional glory, I felt a swell of pride. It was a moment of recognition, not just for Pico's service but for every service animal that has made a difference in someone's life.

To Pico, I say, "Thank you." Thank you for your unwavering service, for the moments of joy, and for the challenges we've overcome together. Here's to many more years of partnership, advocacy, and making a difference.

Join me in celebrating National Service Dog Month. Share your stories, honor these incredible animals, and let's continue the conversation on the importance of accessibility and inclusion in every workspace.

The Unseen Battle: Chronic Pain and the Performance of Wellness

Ryan and Rachael smile in front of a Matchbox 20 Concert Poster at Jiffy Lube Live on July 27, 2023

Last night, I attended a Matchbox 20 concert at Jiffy Lube Live, an event that had been on my calendar since before the pandemic. The anticipation was high, but so was my pain. A sudden flare of chronic pain, the severity of which I hadn’t experienced in months, hit me just hours before the show. The unpredictability of disability and chronic pain is a constant reminder that it's always with us, even during our most anticipated moments.

As Brijana Prooker beautifully articulated in her POPSUGAR essay, living with an invisible illness often involves a performance of wellness. We mask our pain with smiles, energetic demeanors, and a relentless positivity that hides our suffering. We do this to make others comfortable, to fit into societal expectations of health and normalcy. But at what cost?

For years, I too performed wellness. I hid my pain behind an energetic bubbly persona, concealing my struggle from the world. But as Brijana points out, this performance can lead to further harm. "While I may have succeeded in looking healthy, it had only made me sicker," she writes. The energy we expend to appear "well" can exacerbate our conditions, leading to more pain, more fatigue, and a deeper sense of isolation.

The pressure to appear healthy extends to our social interactions. We extend visits beyond our limits, pushing through the pain to avoid disappointing others. We hide our needs, our pain, and our limitations, often at great personal cost. As Brijana explains, a casual hangout can cost us "days, possibly weeks in bed — and so many spoons, we'd have to wait until next month for them to replenish."

But it's time to break free from this cycle. It's time to prioritize our health over societal expectations and other people's comfort. It's time to make our invisible disabilities visible, to share our experiences openly and honestly. It's time to stop performing wellness and start living our truth.

As we near the end of Disability Pride Month, let's remember that our worth isn't determined by our appearance or wellness. Our worth lies in our resilience, our strength, and our ability to navigate a world that often overlooks us. Our worth lies in our authenticity, in our courage to share our stories, and in our determination to advocate for a more inclusive and understanding world.

I Spent Years Trying to Hide My Chronic Illness For Others' Comfort. No More.

The ADA and Beyond: The Ongoing Fight for Workplace Inclusion

A wheelchair user seen from behind moves through her workplace.

Today, it's time to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of disabled individuals in the workplace. As a disability advocate, I've seen firsthand the barriers that disabled individuals face in their professional lives. But I've also witnessed the resilience, creativity, and determination that they bring to the table.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was a significant milestone, but 33 years later, we're still grappling with the complexities of 'reasonable accommodations' and the stigma associated with disclosing a disability. As my friend Emily Ladau recently told CNBC, "Even though workplaces can focus on creating a culture of inclusion, there's that internal barrier that people still struggle with, because the world is telling them that disability is shameful, that disability is wrong, that their existence is somehow a mistake."

This narrative is not only harmful but also fundamentally untrue. Disability is not a mistake or a weakness; it's a part of our identity that shapes our experiences and perspectives. It's time to shift this narrative and embrace disability as a strength.

Research shows that when employees with disabilities are given the opportunity to educate and connect with their co-workers, the number of people who disclose a disability and request accommodations increases. This is a testament to the power of open dialogue and the importance of creating safe spaces for disclosure.

Companies like PSEG have taken steps in the right direction by launching initiatives to encourage people with disabilities to bring their full selves to work. After their awareness campaign, the percentage of people who identified as disabled in their workplace tripled. This is a clear indication that when we create an environment of understanding and empathy, people feel more comfortable disclosing their disabilities.

As we move forward, let's remember Ladau's words: "When we shift that narrative and we begin to say, 'You can identify as having a disability. That is something that you can be proud of. That makes you who you are,' the number of people who identify in the workplace as disabled is going to grow."

Let's continue to challenge the status quo, advocate for reasonable accommodations, and celebrate the diverse experiences and perspectives that disabled individuals bring to the workplace.

A Salute to Advocacy: Celebrating LinkedIn's Top Voices in Disability Advocacy

A picture of Ryan with a blue background and a Linkedin Top Voices graphic that reads: "Ryan Honick: Disability Advocate, Speaker, Professional Persuader."

This week, I was humbled to be featured as a Top Voice in Disability Advocacy by LinkedIn for the second straight year. Advocacy work is its own reward, but this recognition and the platform it provides to amplify our message is deeply appreciated.

Amidst all the chatter about various social media platforms and their impacts on social good, I firmly believe that LinkedIn stands out as the most beneficial and inclusive.

The honor has connected me with fellow advocates and allies, helping to magnify our collective message about the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for disabled people in our society. I am honored to be a Top Voice alongside so many inspiring advocates.

A heartfelt congratulations to Marisa Hamamoto, Lachi ♫, Donna Cruz Jones, Margaux Joffe, CPACC Jeremy Andrew Davis, Keely Cat-Wells, Meryl Evans, CPACC (deaf) Brandon Farbstein, Haben Girma, Julie Harris, Emily Ladau, Becca Lory Hector, Catarina Rivera, MSEd, MPH, CPACC, Natalie Trevonne, and Tiffany A. Yu, MSc. Your tireless efforts to create an equitable world do not go unnoticed.

Each of these advocates brings a unique perspective and voice to the table, and I encourage you to follow their work. Their stories, their struggles, and their victories are a testament to the power of advocacy.

As we celebrate this recognition, let's remember that our work is far from over. Every day, we strive to create a world where disability advocacy is no longer needed, where disability discourse is normalized, and where people with disabilities are treated as equals.

Special thanks to Marisa Hamamoto for the awesome graphic.

Advocacy Burnout: The Untold Story of Disability Activists

View fullsize

A black candle with a wild flame burns surrounded by smoke and a dark desolate background.

As we near the end of Disability Pride Month, I find myself reflecting on the journey we've embarked on together. Nearly every day, I've shared stories, raised awareness, and spotlighted the diverse aspects of disability life. The response has been overwhelming, and I'm deeply grateful for each one of you who has engaged with my posts, learned something new, or found solace in shared experiences.

But today, I want to shed light on a seldom-discussed aspect of disability advocacy: the exhaustion. The reality is, advocacy doesn't pause when the calendar flips or the spotlight dims. We advocate every day, not because we crave attention or conflict, but because we must. We strive to live in a world where our advocacy is no longer necessary, where disability discourse is so normalized that it doesn't require amplification.

There are days when the weight of this work feels unbearable. Days when I wish I could "just live my life," as some well-meaning yet misguided individuals have suggested. But here's the thing: I advocate so that I can do exactly that. So that we all can.

We yearn for a future where months like Disability Pride or National Disability Employment Awareness Month are no longer needed because people with disabilities are treated as equals. We yearn for a future where we don't have to justify our existence or fight for our rights. We yearn for a future where we can just live our lives.

Today, I'm not spotlighting a specific issue or cause. Instead, I'm offering a behind-the-scenes look at the toll advocacy takes. It's rewarding, yes, but it's also physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. And I promise you, your disabled friends are feeling it too.

We can't wait for the day when our advocacy puts itself out of business, as my entrepreneurial father Craig Honick once said. But until then, we need you. We need our allies to step up, to share the load, to amplify our voices. We are tired, but we are not defeated. And with your help, we can build a world where disability advocacy is a chapter in history books, not a daily fight.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let's keep the conversation going, not just this month, but every day.