SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Alice Wong, a prominent disability rights activist and author, has passed away at the age of 51 due to an infection at a hospital in San Francisco. Her close friend, Sandy Ho, confirmed the news, noting that Wong's death has left a profound impact on the disability justice community.
Wong was recognized as a "luminary of the disability justice movement," striving to create a world where individuals with disabilities, particularly those from marginalized groups like people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and immigrants, could live freely and exercise full autonomy over their lives. Born to immigrant parents from Hong Kong, Wong herself had muscular dystrophy and utilized a powered wheelchair along with an assistive breathing device.
In a statement shared by Ho, Wong reflected on her life before her death, expressing her surprise at how her journey had unfolded. She credited the supportive friendships and inspirational teachers who helped her navigate through challenging circumstances, leading her to a place of self-acceptance. In her own words, she emphasized the necessity for more narratives showcasing the lives and cultures of people with disabilities.
Wong’s advocacy work was centered around the principle of enabling individuals with disabilities to live in their communities rather than confined to institutions. Her contributions included various writings and projects, particularly the Disability Visibility Project, a blog and platform she founded to elevate the voices and perspectives of disabled individuals. Ho reflected on Wong’s humorous writing style, noting that her memoir "Year of the Tiger: An Activist's Life" skillfully combined humor with deep insights on disability, allowing readers to connect with the human experience behind the condition.
One of the significant legacies of Wong's work is the empowering message that individuals with disabilities should have the agency to share their own stories and not be spoken for by others. This principle resonated deeply within the disability rights community, where Wong was known for her commitment to self-advocacy.
In recognition of her significant contributions to activism and literature, Wong was honored as part of the 2024 class of fellows for the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, receiving the prestigious "genius grant." This accolade highlights her influence and the lasting impact of her work in advancing rights and visibility for people with disabilities.
Wong's passing marks a monumental loss for many, as she was not only a fighter for disability rights but also an inspiring figure whose work and humor touched the lives of many. Her vision for a more inclusive world and her belief in the power of storytelling will continue to inspire future generations of activists and writers alike.
