Easterseals California: D1$@B1L*tY is not a dirty word

We often fear what we don’t understand, and conversations around disability are avoided. The fear of not knowing what to say, how to act, or how to behave, divides us, not unites us. We whisper it or avoid it altogether, as if disability is a dirty word. Disability is not a dirty word.  It’s a source of pride. It’s part of being human, and for more than 25% of all US people, it’s a part of who we are.

Meet Otto Lana

Otto Lana is an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, published poet writer, and actor. Utilizing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools, he’s always dropping gems of wisdom. Since launching his speaking career in 2018, he has presented to a diverse audience, from lawmakers to elementary school students, over a hundred times. Otto is deeply committed to advocacy.

Meet Betty Partida

Betty Partida has been an active participant with Easterseals Adult Services for 14 years. Recently, she was appointed Vice President of Our Voices Matter, a disability rights advocacy group. Betty is deeply passionate about advocacy, consistently encouraging others to speak up for themselves. She enjoys collaborating with her peers and working together to improve their shared workspace.

Meet Kennedy Garcia & Matthew Von Der Ahe

Kennedy Garcia is an actress, model and self-advocate. She is also a cancer survivor who uses her platform to bring awareness to that and other causes she cares deeply about. You can currently catch Kennedy on Peacock playing the role of Felicity on “Days of Our Lives!”  Matthew Von Der Ahe embarked on his acting journey at age 7, recently achieving prominence in the globally released film "Champions." His diverse interests extend to public speaking, drumming, and he established "Doing my pART," a card company that directs part of its proceeds to charity.

Meet Dewayne “Insane Wayne” Jackson

Dewayne "Insane Wayne" Jackson is a multi-talented actor, comedian, and barber, renowned for his incredible abilities and inspirational spirit. Dewayne has carved out a successful career in entertainment while embracing his Disability with pride. Beyond his professional achievements, Dewayne is a dedicated athlete who plays wheelchair basketball and softball.

Meet Kasey Galik

Kasey Galik is an Adapted Physical Education Specialist and has been a role model to inspired countless students throughout her teaching career by educating others concerning ability awareness. She establishes a personal connection as she shares the story of her learning disability and her physical loss. Several years ago, Kasey Galik experienced a boating accident, causing the amputation of her left arm. Her challenges gave her the empathetic desire to help and relate to others with disabilities.

Meet Andy Arias

Andy Arias is Latinx and queer. He is a faculty member at a prestigious East Coast university. He works on diversity, equity, and inclusion. He specializes in national policy for marginalized communities. As an actor and producer, he prioritizes authentic representation and storytelling for diverse communities, particularly the queer and disability community.

Meet El Mayito

El Mayito was born in Culiacan, Sinaloa, but spent most of his life in LA. El Mayito has Mulinrey syndrome. Mulinrey Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with approximately 110 cases worldwide that is characterized by profound growth delays. He began his entertainment career over ten years ago, and soon discovered his passion for acting and has since become a well-known entertainer, performing at major venues like The Forum in Los Angeles.

Agency: House of Joy
GCD: Melanie Moore
CDs: Bre Fern & Laura Marie Muriel