Guest writer Colin Wilfrid helps research stories on disability activism in Seattle

In 2023, the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods Historic Preservation Program received a grant to support work toward building inclusion in our history writing and landmarking process. Historic Preservation staff have been supporting a team of researchers and advisors to gather information on the history of disability activism in Seattle for a historic context study. The project is designed to be an inclusive and intersectional exploration of disability activism in the city. We are working directly with the disability community to share stories and experiences that highlight advocacy efforts for equitable access and disability justice.

To help tell these important stories, we've commissioned guest writer Colin Wilfrid who recently graduated from the University of Oregon (UO) with a major in political science and a minor in disability studies. Colin (he/they) has autism and served on the leadership team for AccessAbility Student Union, a cross-disability student group at UO. He was also a member of the Coelho Law Fellowship, a program that works to increase disability representation in the legal profession. Colin plays the sousaphone and was a member of the Oregon Marching Band and Basketball Band where they proudly performed at the 2024 March Madness tournament.

Colin is passionate about advocating for the disability community and sharing stories to create awareness and enhance inclusivity. As a student, they facilitated a panel discussion with two Division I marching band members with disabilities - one individual with a visual impairment and another with paraplegia - about the ableism they each experienced in marching band and how they addressed challenges and obstacles. The three then helped advise student leaders and collegiate marching band staff on how to better include members with disabilities. Watch the panel discussion at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQUYz0c4l00

Although his family moved to California in 2016, Colin grew up in Seattle and has wanted to move back to the Puget Sound area ever since. In September, he will return to Seattle as a fellow in the University of Washington (UW) Learning Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program. They will be living close to UW's sports facilities and are excited for opportunities to cheer on the Ducks when they play the Huskies. But don't worry, they say, "I may be an Oregon Duck, but I am a nice duck who grew up in Seattle."

In his free time Colin loves to cook, take bike rides, watch Bluey, and pick out decorations for his baseball-themed room. We want to extend our thanks to Colin for bringing his storytelling experience and passion for advocating for those with disabilities to this project. It is our hope that this work makes it easier for the community to discuss and advocate for the places connected to these important stories.