Alice Wong, a prominent disability rights activist and author whose work transformed conversations around disability and inclusion, died on April 29, 2024, at age 51. The cause of death was not immediatly disclosed.
Wong’s passing represents a important loss for the disability community and beyond, silencing a powerful voice that championed self-representation and accessibility. Her memoir, “Year of the Tiger: An Activist‘s Life,” and her widely-followed social media presence offered a nuanced and often humorous perspective on navigating a world not built for people with disabilities. Wong’s advocacy pushed for systemic change, challenging ableism and advocating for policies that ensure equal rights and opportunities for all.
Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Wong became a leading figure in the disability rights movement through her writing, digital activism, and advocacy work. She co-founded Disability Visibility project, an online community dedicated to amplifying disability perspectives and stories. Her work consistently emphasized the importance of disabled people speaking for themselves, rather than having others define thier experiences.
“The legacy of Wong’s work is that people with disabilities ‘speak for themselves and that nobody speaks for us,'” said Anita Ho, as reported by the Associated Press. Ho described Wong as a funny person and a hilarious writer, acknowledging the skill required to blend humor with such significant subject matter.
In 2024, wong was named a MacArthur Fellow, receiving the prestigious “genius grant” in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to disability rights and her ability to foster a more inclusive society. Her influence extends to policy, media representation, and individual attitudes toward disability.
Details regarding memorial arrangements are pending. Wong’s work continues to inspire activists and advocates working toward a more equitable and accessible future.
