By Taylor Akers, Preservation Associate Kathleen Kleinmann, a founding member of the of the Western Pennsylvania Disability History and Action Consortium, is a renowned disability rights leader. … [Read more...] about Kathleen Peer Kleinmann, Disability Rights Advocate
Other Stories
Bill Chrisner: On the Front Lines of Advocacy
Bill Chrisner, a founding member of the Western Pennsylvania Disability History and Action Consortium who has been at the forefront of disability rights for nearly six decades, participated in an oral … [Read more...] about Bill Chrisner: On the Front Lines of Advocacy
In Memory of Jeff Parker: A Champion for Disability Rights
We are saddened to share the passing of Jeff Parker, a dedicated champion for disability rights in our region. Jeff spent many years advocating for accessibility and inclusion, leading efforts with … [Read more...] about In Memory of Jeff Parker: A Champion for Disability Rights
The Magic of Marlene, a Tribute by Max Colecchi
By Max Colecchi, Disability Options Network board member and Western Pennsylvania Disability History and Action Consortium executive committee member The Magic of Marlene Marlene O’Leary, age … [Read more...] about The Magic of Marlene, a Tribute by Max Colecchi
Honoring the Legacy of Marlene O’Leary, Disability Rights Advocate
It is with deep sadness that the Western Pennsylvania Disability History and Action Consortium shares the news of the passing of Marlene O'Leary, a tireless advocate and dedicated leader for … [Read more...] about Honoring the Legacy of Marlene O’Leary, Disability Rights Advocate
The Power of Activism: Catherine Holl
In June 2024, Sierra Green, Senior Outreach Archivist at Heinz History Center, recorded the oral history of Catherine Holl, disability rights advocate and co-founder of Disability Options Network … [Read more...] about The Power of Activism: Catherine Holl
From Boston to Pittsburgh: Joyce Driben’s Oral History
In May 2024, the Consortium had the pleasure of joining with Heinz History Center to record the oral history of Joyce Driben, a long-time social worker and disability rights advocate. Joyce’s personal … [Read more...] about From Boston to Pittsburgh: Joyce Driben’s Oral History
The Fighting Scots: A History of Wheelchair Basketball at Edinboro University
The following history was provided to WPDHAC by James Glatch, Head Coach of the Wheelchair Basketball program at PennWest University. Introduction PennWest Edinboro, formerly Edinboro … [Read more...] about The Fighting Scots: A History of Wheelchair Basketball at Edinboro University
In Memory of Judy Barricella (June 30, 1947-November 14, 2022)
The Western Pennsylvania disability lost a leading disability rights advocate when Judy Barricella passed away on November 14, 2022. (Read the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette obituary here or download a PDF … [Read more...] about In Memory of Judy Barricella (June 30, 1947-November 14, 2022)
In Remembrance of Katie Clare Smith
By Max Colecchi Read Katie Clare Smith's obituary here. On February 27, 2022, the world lost a wonderful and loving human-being. Katherine Clare Smith passed away at UPMC Mercy after battling … [Read more...] about In Remembrance of Katie Clare Smith
