The San Francisco community, alongside the broader disability rights movement, is mourning the loss of Alice Wong, a trailblazing activist, writer, and advocate who passed away recently. Wong, widely respected for her pioneering work, was a passionate advocate for elevating the voices of disabled individuals and fighting for inclusivity across all spheres of society.
Wong gained national recognition as the writer of the “Disability Visibility” column for Teen Vogue, where she explored a range of issues affecting disabled youth, from systemic barriers to personal experiences. Through her writing, she presented a candid, thoughtful perspective on disability, challenging societal norms and reshaping public discourse.
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As the founder of the Disability Visibility Project, Wong spearheaded an innovative oral history project in collaboration with StoryCorps, aiming to document the diverse and powerful experiences of disabled individuals across the country. This project became an essential resource, not only for advocates and scholars but also for anyone seeking to understand the realities of living with a disability. It preserved these voices for future generations, creating a lasting record of disabled people’s stories and struggles.
Wong’s activism was deeply rooted in her belief in the power of personal narratives as a means of social change. She used storytelling to bring awareness to the experiences of disabled people, from the challenges they face to their triumphs, creativity, and resilience. Through her advocacy, she sought to make spaces more accessible, more inclusive, and more representative of disabled voices.
In 2024, Wong’s unparalleled contributions were recognized with a prestigious MacArthur Fellowship, often referred to as the “genius grant.” This honor underscored her exceptional leadership in advancing disability rights, both through her personal efforts and her collaborative initiatives, which have paved the way for greater representation of disabled individuals in various sectors.
Friends, colleagues, and community members remember Wong for her unwavering commitment to justice, her intellectual brilliance, and her profound humility. She fostered mentorship and collaboration throughout her career, always encouraging others to speak out and actively engage in advocacy.
Wong’s passing leaves a void, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations of activists, writers, and advocates committed to disability rights. Her work ensured that the voices of disabled people were not just heard but celebrated, and her impact will resonate for years to come.