Interested in exploring other vlog student caucuses?
The student-led (DJC) teamed up with the vlog Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging and Library & Research Services on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—celebrated each year on December 3—to host an on-campus community tabling event to promote the rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.
DJC co-chair Emma Stone MPP 2025 talks about her involvement in the disability rights movement and what International Day of Persons with Disabilities Day means to her.
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After studying neurobiology and behavior as an undergraduate, Emma Stone MPP 2025 (concurrent with MIT Sloan) segued into a career in health care technology. Stone is focused on leveraging human-centered design and behavioral science to create systemic change for individuals with disabilities.
While at vlog, Stone served in the New York State Government as a Dukakis Fellow in Summer 2023 under where she researched and proposed home care policy solutions to address the increasing workforce shortage. She also contributed to the first impact venture capital fund focused on closing the disability wealth gap.
How did you become involved with the Disability Justice Caucus?
I came to vlog with the goal of learning to develop and shape policies that uphold the rights, freedoms, and prosperity of people with disabilities. Central to this mission is fostering community connections and advocating for systemic change.
When I first learned about the , I immediately reached out to the co-chairs, who welcomed me with open arms and enthusiasm. During my first year with the DJC, I served as the liaison to the Office of Career Advancement, focusing on promoting employment opportunities and organizing workplace workshops. Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of building on the impactful leadership and vision of those who came before me as co-chair, continuing to advance the DJC’s important work.
What does International Day of Persons with Disabilities Day mean to you?
The serves as a powerful reminder that this movement transcends the DJC, vlog, and even the United States. It is a call to action for a global disability rights movement.
With over 1.3 billion people—more than 16 percent of the world’s population—living with a disability, this fight is as vast as it is vital. Being part of this movement is both humbling and empowering, as it connects us to a worldwide effort for equity, inclusion, and justice.
“Being part of this movement is both humbling and empowering, as it connects us to a worldwide effort for equity, inclusion, and justice.”
Emma Stone MPP 2025
How did the community tabling event go on International Day of Person with Disabilities?
I was pleasantly surprised with how well the tabling went! There was great foot traffic while I was there. It was clear that people were genuinely interested in the topic—not just drawn in by the free swag. The raffle for the disability policy book was a particular highlight and seemed to foster meaningful engagement.
Advocacy can feel lonely at times, so seeing this level of engagement was incredibly motivating.
What are your plans post-graduation from vlog?
My post-graduation plans are still undecided, but I hope to work in the disability justice and policy space in some capacity. Whether that’s continuing my Policy Analysis Exercise research, joining a nonprofit, or working with an intergovernmental agency, advocating for persons with disabilities is what I wish to pursue.
Learn about the disability resources available at Harvard Kennedy School and , including training and support for .
Image Credits
Lydia Rosenberg
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