Three Colorado Women Leading the Way in Disability Advocacy
March 18, 2025
Women have long been at the forefront of disability advocacy, shaping policies and programs that promote inclusion and accessibility. Meet three Colorado women who are continuing that legacy and making a lasting impact.
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the impact of women who have shaped history and continue to drive change today. Each year, the National Women’s History Alliance select a theme. This year’s theme, Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations, celebrates the power of women supporting and uplifting one another to build a more inclusive future.
Women have long played a key role in advocating for disability rights and inclusion, working to break down barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all. In Colorado, leaders like Pamela Bisceglia, Julie Reiskin, and Georgia Edson are at the forefront of this work. Through policy change, direct advocacy, and community engagement, they are making a lasting difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
We had the opportunity to connect with each of these women to learn more about their career path, inspirations, and advice for the next generation of disability advocates. Read on to learn more about their journeys and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Meet the Advocates
Pamela Bisceglia, Executive Director at AdvocacyDenver
Pam shared how her journey into disability advocacy began with the premature birth of her daughter and the challenges she faced in accessing essential services. Over the years, she has worked tirelessly to advance the rights of individuals with disabilities, both through direct advocacy and systemic change. In our Q&A, Pam reflects on how her work in advocacy has transformed over the years, the professional achievement she feels most proud of, and more.
“In my current position, I walk with a team of talented advocates who provide individual advocacy to children and adults with disabilities. The team also advocates for systemic change that serves in the interest of the disabled community. Our shared goal is to keep pushing forward the human rights of individuals with disabilities.”
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Julie Reiskin, Co-Executive Director of the Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition
Julie’s lifelong commitment to social justice became deeply personal when she acquired a disability in her early 20s, driving her to champion healthcare access, disability policy reform, and systemic change. Throughout our Q&A, Julie shares profound reflections on the women who shaped her journey, her proudest policy achievements, and her guidance for the next generation of disability advocates.
“We can get to know younger leaders and be there to share what mistakes we made and share what we have learned over decades of this work. We can help them pace themselves. We can be their cheerleaders. We can continue to pave the way as we have by demanding that our community have a seat at the table and support them when they get jobs in the system whether in government or nonprofits. When they start running for office, we can support their campaigns both financially and with volunteer help.”
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Georgia Edson, Executive Director of The Arc of Arapahoe, Douglas, and Elbert Counties
Georgia has dedicated her career to advancing disability rights and inclusion. From supporting individuals transitioning out of institutions to championing self-determination, Georgia’s work has focused on ensuring people with disabilities are respected, empowered, and included. In our Q&A, she reflects on the women who have influenced her and the lessons she’s learned as a leader. She also shares the most important advice she would give to someone interested in getting involved with advocacy: listen to, learn from, and amplify the voices of people with disabilities. They know best what they need.
“My first role was facilitating the transition of individuals from state-run institutions into community-based settings in California. This experience was transformative, not only shaping my professional path but also reinforcing a fundamental truth: the most meaningful and impactful support comes from truly listening to people—honoring their voices, choices, and autonomy—rather than making assumptions about what is best for them.”
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The leadership and advocacy of these incredible women, and countless other disability advocates, remind us of the vital role women play in advancing disability rights. Their work has helped shape policies, empower communities, and create lasting change. Each day the effort to advance inclusion and equity for people with disabilities continues.
You can support these efforts by following these advocates’ work, sharing their stories, attending advocacy events, or volunteering with disability rights organizations.
To learn more about how to get involved, check out our blog about becoming a stronger disability advocate. Together, we can continue moving forward toward a more inclusive future.
