Tina Hardy, coordinator of the Center for Accessibility and Neurodiversity, partnered with students to speak on notable women in disability history.

On March 21, Hardy, in collaboration with students shed light on some remarkable figures and issues within the realm of disability rights. Hardy began with a call for attention to historical landmarks and their relevance, urging the audience to reflect on their knowledge of disability rights.

As a lifelong advocate in the field, Hardy acknowledged her expertise while inviting contributions from others. “I’ve worked on disability rights my whole life; however, I am not an expert on disability rights,” said Hardy.

Then, Hardy played a video that included archival footage which showcased civil rights protests and highlighted the historical context of eugenics, where disability was viewed through a lens of deficiency rather than diversity.

Hardy emphasized the relatively recent passage of laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act, also known as the ADA, in 1990, underscoring the significance of these legal protections in shaping her own career trajectory.

“1990, to me, feels like a really short time ago but it’s not that long ago when we look at civil rights history. It’s because those laws are passed that I’m here,” Hardy stated.

Throughout the speech, Hardy spotlighted notable women whose activism resonates across intersecting identities. She mentioned figures like Helen Keller, Barbara Jordan, Marsha P. Johnson, and Temple Grandin. “I chose these people because it shows intersectionality,” Hardy said.

Hardy discussed Keller’s promotion of positive aspects of blindness, Jordan’s political achievements, Johnson’s intersectional approach to activism, and Grandin’s portrayal of autism showcasing different perspectives on disability rights.

Two student speakers, both with disabilities, also presented and gave insight on living with a disability in today’s world.

They highlighted Isabelle Grant, who advocated for inclusive education, and Dorothea Lange, whose photography captured the struggles of marginalized communities, including individuals with disabilities.

Hardy emphasized the importance of ongoing advocacy and awareness by discussing figures like Judy Heumann, who played a major role in the 504 sit-in, and Alice Wong, who is a prolific writer.

Hardy also mentioned that Wong’s book will be used for OBOC next year, which she stated was “huge.”

Lizzy, a student with autism, shared her concerns about employment and financial stability. “There is a lot of stigma around disabilities. It’s scary when you’re trying to get a job and it’s very stressful to think about,” said Lizzy.

Hardy concluded, “I do want to reiterate that while things have come a long way there is a lot of work to be done,” said Hardy.

She stated that for women with disabilities, college completion is increasing, unemployment rates are doubled, mental distress is greater, and they earn less than women without disabilites.

“I know a lot of people who haven’t had the opportunity to have a job. I’m looking to star internships to give those people the opportunity to get their foot in the door,” said Hardy.

Hardy closed by by saying that she hoped everything they highlighted during the speech will help listeners “light the spark.”