In recognition of International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Saturday, December 3, 2022, I wanted to repost a blog I did in 2018.
Five years ago I had the opportunity to be keynote for the Awards Banquet and Induction Ceremony segment of the 6th Annual International Colloquium on Black Males in Education 2017 held in Toronto, Ontario.
When I thought about what remarks I could offer this audience of Black American and Canadian men and women, I couldn’t help but think about my son and his experiences in postsecondary, as a Black man with a physical disability.
After a drunk driver hit him in 2010, which left him paralyzed from the waist down, he had to learn how to live and do life differently.
So, I considered offering my experience as a mom of a Black son with a disability. In the end, we decided to do the keynote together and share our transformational experiences, from the perspective of a mom and a son.
Here is the link to my previous blog post that includes my introduction and my son’s remarks, which almost moved us to tears…
Video 1 (My Intro):
Video 2 (Son’s Remarks – Part 1 of 2):
Video 3 (Son’s Remarks – Part 2 of 2):
After my son’s accident, the world showed me that physical disabilities are not top of mind and need to be centered more in leadership, policies, practices, and the like.
How can workplaces, postsecondary and governments recognize and intentionally support Persons with Disabilities, both visible and invisible? As leaders and agents of change, how would you change organizational culture to be intentional in supporting persons with disabilities?
Let’s share and connect. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
