Disability Lead

Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month!

In 1977, Jeanie Jew advocated for this observance to honor her grandfather’s legacy. In 1990, a congressional resolution established "Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month" to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, and acknowledge the history, diverse cultures, and contributions of AAPI communities. At Disability Lead we are proud to support a network of leaders with disabilities, which includes a beautiful community of Asian American and Pacific Islander folks. These leaders are positive disruptors who are working to achieve an equitable, just, and inclusive society.

On Monday, we hosted our biannual Exchange in-person networking event exclusively for Members. Exchange is designed for Members to deepen current connections, foster new ones, and expand their network. It was an evening of networking over light bites and refreshments. Severe storms tried to rain on our parade, but inside was warm and lively.

Special thanks to Sydney Holman (Fellow, 2023) and Cozen O'Connor for hosting us!

Thank you, Governor Shapiro, for prioritizing expanding opportunities for Pennsylvanians with disabilities. These Executive Orders are great moves for opening decision-making tables to include people with disabilities at the state level.

We have a network of leaders who are passionate chnagemakers who would be great additions to your new Commission. We would love to connect them to you.

For too long, decisions have been made ABOUT people with disabilities, not WITH them.

Here in Pennsylvania, we’re not just giving these folks a seat at the table — we're asking them to be the decision makers about policies that affect them.