Latavia Sturdivant’s new book takes aim at performative inclusion

Latavia Sturdivant, author, educator and Ms. Wheelchair America 2026, has released a new book that argues accessibility must move beyond symbolism to real action. The Yonkers-based disability advocate says the work is meant for educators, policymakers and business leaders confronting barriers faced by disabled people.

Why it matters: - The Illusion of Inclusion: Reflections for Change-Makers targets the gap between public statements about inclusion and the actual changes disabled people need. - The book frames accessibility as a practical issue with consequences for daily life, productivity and participation. - Sturdivant positions the book as a tool for educators, policymakers and corporate leaders who influence access and decision-making.

What happened: - Latavia Sturdivant, a Yonkers author, educator and disability advocate, released The Illusion of Inclusion: Reflections for Change-Makers. - The book is available on Amazon Books, Barnes & Noble and Shop Books Direct. - Sturdivant is Ms. Wheelchair America 2026 and the first New Yorker to hold the title. - Sturdivant was born with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair in daily life.

The details: - The book draws from Sturdivant’s TEDx talk at TEDx Deer Park Women. - The format includes personal reflections, real-life scenarios, journal prompts and facilitated discussion questions. - Sturdivant describes the book as a hands-on guide for individuals and institutional decision-makers. - The message centers on moving beyond performative language and into concrete inclusion. - Sturdivant said the book grew from years of feeling unseen, unheard and misunderstood. - Sturdivant said empathy is necessary for greater inclusion. - Sturdivant pointed to a gap between visible accessibility gestures, such as ramps or checkboxes, and deeper systemic barriers. - Sturdivant said an airline damaged her wheelchair, leaving her without essential equipment for six weeks. - The incident drew national media attention. - Sturdivant said people with disabilities need a seat at the table when changes affect their lives.

Between the lines: - The book lands as disability rights face increasing legislative pressure. - Sturdivant’s pitch is broader than disability advocacy alone because she frames disability as a status any person could join at any time. - The message pushes readers from awareness to participation, which reflects a shift from symbolic inclusion to shared power.

What's next: - Sturdivant is available for interviews in person or via Zoom. - The book is being presented as a primer for readers who want a practical model for change. - Sturdivant is expected to continue pairing advocacy with public outreach around the book.

The bottom line: - Sturdivant is using The Illusion of Inclusion to argue that inclusion is not a slogan; it is a set of actions that must be built into policy, institutions and everyday life.