“To be a disabled oracle is someone who tells their truths in a hostile ableist world that does not believe you,” said local disability rights activist Alice Wong in a January interview with the UK Guardian, on the occasion of receiving a MacArthur genius grant last year. “The pandemic reveals an attitude that disabled, sick, poor and immunocompromised people are disposable. Disabled people already know what it is like to not be believed by the medical establishment when they have a mysterious illness such as long Covid. Disabled people foresaw correctly the need to mask in spite of mask bans and the dangers from lack of masking in healthcare settings.”
She also had strong words for the current administration, and American society: “The election of Donald Trump reflects the fascism, racism and xenophobia already present in our society. The United States is a country rooted in the myth of the rugged individual, hypercapitalism, ableism and white supremacy. It’s been clear to me that if we take care of everyone, that will contribute to a stronger society even if it comes at an additional cost in taxes, which should be thought of as an investment. It’s not a weakness to need help and no one is invincible.”
Yesterday came the sad word that Alice—a forceful and outspoken fixture at City Hall and local protest actions who founded the Disability Visibility Project, and who had been commended in July by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors for her work—had passed away at the 51. A Friday social media post on her channels by her friend Sandy Ho, according to Wong’s wishes, said in her words:
Hi everyone, it looks like I ran out of time. I have so many dreams that I wanted to fulfill and plans to create new stories for you. There are a few in progress that might come to fruition in a few years if things work out. I did not ever imagine I would live to this age and end up a writer, editor, activist, and more. As a kid riddled with insecurity and internalized ableism, I could not see a path forward.
It was thanks to friendships and some great teachers who believed in me that I was able to fight my way out of miserable situations into a place where I finally felt comfortable in my skin.
We need more stories about us and our culture. You all, we all, deserve the everything and more in such a hostile, ableist environment. Our wisdom is incisive and unflinching. I’m honored to be your ancestor and believe disabled oracles like us will light the way to the future. Don’t let the bastards grind you down. I love you all.
Condolences immediately poured forth from friends, artists, activist, and politicos including W. Kamau Bell, who shared stories of his special bond with Wong. Her singular energy and dedication (not to mention incredible personal style) will be truly missed, and we must continue her work.
