Brianna Kupfer is a well known advocate for disability rights and inclusion. She has a reputation as a powerful forces for positive change in the fight to end discrimination and making sure everyone is treated with respect. Through her work, she has pushed for greater inclusion and justice for disabled women, children and communities around the world. Kupfer is making a difference by working to create more awareness, empowerment and recognition of disabled people’s unique abilities, while also fighting to combat the discrimination that so many face everyday.
Brianna Kupfer’s Story and Background
Brianna Kupfer was born in Colorado and grew up as an avid disability rights activist. Although she was a well-functioning person since birth, she was diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), an autonomic nervous system disorder, at the age of 17. This medical condition left her with severe limitations, including fatigue and dizziness. Kupfer was determined to not let her illness keep her from making a difference in the world and lived by the mantra: “Around every limitation is an opportunity.” She was an honors student in high school and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs and a Master’s degree in Non Profit Organization Management, both from the University of Denver. Through her education, Kupfer was able to gain a deeper understanding of how disability rights play a role in the international community.
Kupfer’s Contributions to Disability Rights and Inclusion
Brianna Kupfer has made a strong contribution to disability rights and inclusion. As an advocate, she has worked hard to increase visibility and acceptance for people with disabilities, both in her own community and globally. Her career has focused on offering visibility, inclusion and advocacy to those who need it.
In 2018, Kupfer became the youngest member of the Executive Committee of the International Disability Alliance (IDA), a United Nations organization that unites disability organizations around the world. Kupfer serves as a resource on disability rights and is heavily involved in the organization’s efforts to promote an enabling environment for all persons with disabilities.
In addition, Kupfer launched Uplift Accessibility, an organization committed to making the world a more navigable place for people living with disabilities. She works with local and international organizations, as well as private and public entities, to ensure everyone’s needs are taken into account. Her work is important in ensuring that the most vulnerable and marginalized, who often face the greatest obstacles, are included in all conversations and decisions.
Kupfer has also co-authored several articles on disability and inclusion, as well as a book, which explores how society can and should be more aware of the shared experience of disability. She uses her platform to inspire others to think about how people living with disabilities can see themselves and how everyone can be a champion of social inclusion.
Kupfer’s Impact on Disability Rights and Inclusion
Kupfer’s work has been immensely influential on the disability rights and inclusion movement. According to a UNICEF report, in the last 10 years, Kupfer’s advocacy has increased public support for the inclusion and advocacy of persons with disabilities. Additionally, Kupfer and her team at Uplift Accessibility have been able to create partnerships with some of the world’s leading organizations to help bridge the gap between disabled people and access to resources.
Kupfer is also leading the charge in ending stigma and negative stereotypes associated with disabilities. She insists that disabilities do not always have to be viewed in a negative light and that everyone is capable of amazing things regardless of the hand they were dealt.
Kupfer’s long-term goals are to use Uplift Accessibility to bring further visibility to the rights, needs and contribution of people with disabilities, and to create an equitable society where everyone is respected and valued.
Kupfer’s Accolades and Recognitions
Since beginning her advocacy work, Kupfer has been recognized for her dedication and passion for disability rights and inclusion. She was the recipient of the National Cultural Ball Ambassador Award for engaging in philanthropic activities that embrace diversity and tolerance.
In 2017, Kupfer was named a Champion of Change by the White House for her advocacy work. In 2019, she received the Global Disability Rights Award from the Global Disability Rights Now! and the Institute on Inclusive Security, which recognizes powerful disability rights activists around the world. Kupfer was also featured on the cover of Role Model magazine in 2018, as she was selected to feature in the magazine that celebrates people making an impact in their communities.
Top Ways to Support Disability Rights and Inclusion
Every action counts when it comes to supporting disability rights and inclusion. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to show your support. Here are some simple, yet important, steps you can take to help celebrate the contributions of disabled people and ensure everyone is treated with respect and dignity:
• Educate yourself and others – dedicate time to learn about disability rights and inclusion. Make it clear that you are a proud ally for persons with disabilities by speaking up for what’s right.
• Learn about local disability rights groups – investigate local disability-led organizations and learn about how to support their work.
• Listen to and prioritize disabled voices – make sure disabled people are included in conversations and decisions that affect their lives.
• Promote accessible environments and products – understand the different barriers that may prevent access and prioritize making spaces accessible.
• Welcome disabled people into the workforce – get rid of stereotypes and make sure those living with disabilities are offered fair employment opportunities.
• Protest judicial policies – lobby for policy decisions that ensure disabled people’s rights and stand up against injustices.
• Donate your time and money – financial contribution is just one step in offering support. Consider donating your time and energy to the cause.
It’s clear that Brianna Kupfer’s contributions to disability rights and inclusion have been nothing short of remarkable. She has used her unique platform to shed light on the shared experience of disability and to fight for equity, inclusion and dignity for all persons with disabilities. Kupfer’s story is an inspiration to those looking to make a difference and an important reminder that everyone can be a champion for social justice.
It’s also important to recognize that supporting disability rights and inclusion isn’t just a job for those like Kupfer. Each and every one of us can be an active participant in the fight for equality and justice. By educating ourselves, listening to disabled voices, protesting injustices, and creating accessible environments and products, we can join the effort to ensure everyone is treated as an equal in our world.
