By visiting contributor Traci Huppman
Attending the Weingarten Disability Symposium was an insightful experience, filled with thought-provoking discussions and powerful takeaways. Among the many ideas shared, I made note of several books and a speaker that may inform our work around accessibility—or simply serve as sources of inspiration. Here are a few recommendations that stood out:
Recommended Reads
Nudge: The Final Edition by Richard H. Thaler & Cass R. Sunstein
Trico Library link for Nudge: The Final Edition
This updated edition of Nudge continues to explore how small interventions can lead to better decision-making, both at an individual and societal level. The book has been widely recognized as essential reading for those interested in public policy, politics, human behavior, and welfare. As Barry Schwartz (Swarthmore Emeriti) of The American Prospect put it:
“Nudge is as important a book as any I’ve read in perhaps twenty years. It is a book that people interested in any aspect of public policy should read. It is a book that people interested in politics should read. It is a book that people interested in ideas about human freedom should read. It is a book that people interested in promoting human welfare should read. If you’re not interested in any of these topics, you can read something else.”
For those of us working in accessibility and inclusion, Nudge offers valuable insights into how small design choices can create more equitable environments.
Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw: Reimagining Success as a Disabled Achiever by Eddie Ndopu
Eddie Ndopu’s memoir is a compelling account of navigating ableism while striving for excellence. His story challenges conventional definitions of success and invites us to rethink what an accessible world could look like. Apple Books Review highlights the depth of his reflections:
“This witty and inspiring memoir digs into the highs and lows of one man’s life while navigating ableism. . . The struggles in Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw will make you wonder what it will take to create a truly accessible world for all, and the strength Ndopu took from them will make you want to raise a glass of cold champagne in his honor.”
Ndopu’s perspective is both necessary and transformative for anyone invested in disability advocacy and inclusion.
This Is Body Grief: Making Peace with the Loss That Comes with Living in a Body by Jayne Mattingly
On order with the library
Jayne Mattingly’s This Is Body Grief explores the emotional and psychological aspects of living in a body that changes over time, particularly for those with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Akilah Cadet, MPH, author of White Supremacy Is All Around, offers this reflection:
“As a Black disabled woman, Body Grief is my daily story. Mattingly reminds us that ‘without storytelling there is no healing,’ validating why it is important to listen to the stories our bodies tell us. Read this book to heal in your own way. To be angry. To share. To accept. To celebrate and to love your body unconditionally amongst the continuous grief it brings.”
This book offers a powerful invitation to reflect on our own relationships with our bodies and to embrace healing through storytelling.
Featured Speaker: Ali Stroker
Ali Stroker is a Tony Award-winning actress and disability advocate. As the first wheelchair user to perform on Broadway, Stroker’s journey has broken barriers and redefined representation in the arts. Her ability to blend personal storytelling with advocacy makes her an inspiring voice for disability inclusion. She came highly recommended as a potential speaker by one the Symposium’s plenary presenters, Carrie Ingersoll-Wood, Director, Disability Cultural Center at Syracuse University.
Final Thoughts
The Weingarten Disability Symposium was a valuable opportunity to engage with ideas that challenge, inspire, and inform our work. Whether through groundbreaking books or compelling speakers, these perspectives help shape a more inclusive future. If any of these recommendations resonate with you, I encourage you to explore them further—there’s always more to learn and ways to grow in our commitment to accessibility and equity.
What books, speakers, or insights have influenced your approach to accessibility and inclusion? I’d love to hear your thoughts!