Disability Rights Advocate Alice Wong Dies at 51

Alice Wong, a pioneering disability rights activist and author, has died. She was 51 years old. Wong passed away on Friday in a San Francisco hospital.

Her death was confirmed by close friend Sandy Ho. According to Ho, the cause was an infection.

A Legacy of Visibility and Justice

Wong was a powerful voice for disability justice. She founded the Disability Visibility Project. This initiative amplified the stories and experiences of disabled people.

She was born with muscular dystrophy. Wong used a powered wheelchair and a ventilator. Her work focused on community, autonomy, and representation.

In 2024, Wong received a MacArthur Foundation “genius grant.” This recognized her profound impact on culture and advocacy. Her memoir, “Year of the Tiger,” was widely celebrated.

Championing a Marginalized Community

Wong’s activism centered on the most marginalized. She advocated for disabled people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and immigrants. Her goal was a world where everyone had full bodily autonomy.

She fiercely opposed the institutionalization of disabled people. Her writing was known for its humor and sharp insight. Sandy Ho described her as a “luminary” whose legacy ensures disabled people speak for themselves.

The disability community mourns the loss of a transformative figure. Alice Wong’s work ensures that disabled voices will continue to be heard, shaping a more inclusive future for all.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the cause of Alice Wong’s death?

Alice Wong died from an infection. She was hospitalized in San Francisco at the time of her passing. Her friend, Sandy Ho, publicly shared this information.

What is the Disability Visibility Project?

It is a community storytelling initiative founded by Alice Wong. The project collects and shares the diverse stories of disabled people. Its goal is to advance disability justice and representation.

What is a MacArthur “genius grant”?

The MacArthur Fellowship is a prestigious award given by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. It recognizes exceptional creativity and promise for future work. Alice Wong was part of the 2024 class of fellows.

What was Alice Wong’s most famous book?

She authored the memoir “Year of the Tiger: An Activist’s Life.” The book blends personal narrative with activism. It is known for its humorous and humanizing portrayal of disability.

What was the core philosophy of her activism?

Wong championed the idea that disabled people must speak for themselves. She fought for community-based living over institutions. Her work centered on intersectionality, focusing on those with multiple marginalized identities.