This episode of the SLO Equity Podcast recognizes Disability Pride Month through conversations about access, inclusion, employment, and belonging.

We begin with Jennifer Chassman Browne, disability advocate, writer, and speaker for Diversity Coalition's upcoming Disabilities 101: Access, Awareness, and Community event. Jennifer shares her own lived experience with disability, reflects on the meaning of Disability Pride, discusses recent federal disability policy changes, and introduces her upcoming book, See Us, Know Us, which highlights the diverse experiences of people with disabilities through personal stories.

We also hear from Andrea Wasko, local business owner whose company has intentionally created employment opportunities for people with disabilities. As she prepares to transition the business,Connoisseur Creations, Inc., to new ownership, Andrea reflects on the value of inclusive hiring and her hope that this commitment to opportunity and belonging continues into the future.

Together, these conversations explore a simple but important idea: accessibility is about more than removing barriers—it's about creating communities where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and belong.

Guests

• Jennifer Chassman Browne — Disability advocate, writer, and speaker
• Andrea Wasko — Business owner and community member

Resources

• Jennifer Chassman Browne: Preorder See Us, Know Us and learn more about Jennifer's work: www.jenniferchassmanbrowne.com
• Interested in continuing Andrea Wasko's mission of inclusive employment or learning more about the business? Contact Andrea at [email protected].

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Diversity Coalition San Luis Obispo County, its board members, partners, sponsors, or any organizations with which the speakers may be affiliated.

Thank You to:

Thank you to the City of San Luis Obispo - DEI Office - DEI High Impact Grant. Programs and projects supported by the City of San Luis Obispo funds are open and accessible to all otherwise qualified members of the public and without regard to race, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or disability.