On Friday, November 14, 2025, the disability community lost a trailblazer. Alice Wong, a passionate advocate, writer, and founder of the Disability Visibility Project, passed away at 51. Her work reshaped public understanding of disability, centering disabled voices and promoting equity, accessibility, and justice.
Alice Wong: A Life Dedicated to Disability Advocacy
Born in Indianapolis to immigrant parents from Hong Kong, Alice lived with muscular dystrophy, navigating the world with a powered wheelchair and assistive technologies. She often described herself as a “cyborg,” reclaiming the machines that helped her live as part of her identity.
In 2014, Alice launched the Disability Visibility Project, a platform that collects oral histories, essays, and personal stories from disabled people.
This project not only celebrates disabled culture but also provides a resource for education, policy advocacy, and community building.
Impact Through Writing and Public Service
Alice’s memoir, Year of the Tiger: An Activist’s Life, offered a deeply personal yet politically sharp reflection on her experiences as a disabled Asian American woman.
Her writing blended humor, vulnerability, and radical insight, inspiring both disabled and non-disabled readers.
Beyond writing, Alice served on the National Council on Disability, influencing federal disability policy. Her recognition included awards such as the MacArthur Foundation “Genius” Grant, acknowledging her innovative contributions to disability justice.
A Legacy of Community and Inclusion
Alice was not only an activist but also a mentor and organizer. She believed in the power of community, creating spaces where disabled voices are amplified rather than overlooked. Even during her own serious health challenges, she continued to mentor emerging activists, edit anthologies, and lead discussions on disability rights.
Her vision reminds us that disability advocacy is not just about accessibility — it’s about dignity, representation, and storytelling.
How to Honor Alice Wong’s Legacy
Alice’s life teaches us that change begins with listening, amplifying marginalized voices, and advocating for systemic justice. You can honor her legacy by:
- Supporting disabled writers, artists, and creators
- Amplifying the work of Disability Visibility Project contributors
- Engaging in local and national disability rights advocacy
- Educating others about inclusive policies and accessibility
Alice Wong’s advocacy, storytelling, and unwavering commitment to disability justice have left a lasting impact. While the disability community mourns her loss, her vision and legacy continue to empower. By uplifting disabled voices and fighting for equity, we honor Alice Wong’s life and work every day.
