Advocacy in Action: Nicole Adler Kicks Off Las Trampas’ “Elevate Every Voice” Series

On November 1, Las Trampas welcomed human-rights champion Nicole Adler as the inaugural presenter for our new “Elevate Every Voice” speaker series. In an hour that was equal parts truth-telling and joy, Nicole shared her lived experience and a powerful roadmap for how each of us can advance equality, inclusion, and acceptance for people with disabilities.

“I was born with Tri-Somy 21… and I’m proud of what I have accomplished,” Nicole began, quickly setting a tone of candor and strength. She spoke about the circle of mentors, teachers, friends—and her “fierce” mom—who have fueled her journey. “Anything is possible if you believe in yourself,” she said, framing the heart of her message: possibility, not limitation.

Love, Voice, and a Revolution of Belonging

One of Nicole’s heroes is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and she quoted a favorite line: “Love has the power to change the world.” For Nicole, this isn’t a slogan; it’s a strategy. “My personal goal is to start a LOVE REVOLUTION and peace for all,” she told the audience, urging us to lead with compassion even as we challenge systems that exclude.

Nicole’s advocacy centers on people with disabilities, including those who are also LGBTQ+. She lifted up the reality that many community members hold multiple identities and face layered barriers. Her work partners with organizations to “grow awareness and understanding,” not only to change minds but to open doors.

How Change Starts: Practical Moves Anyone Can Make

A throughline of Nicole’s talk was agency—especially for those who rarely get a seat at the table. “Change can start with YOU!” she said, before offering concrete steps:

  • Build relationships with decision-makers. Don’t wait for a crisis; become a trusted voice now.
  • Share your lived experience. “When people hear your story directly from you, they start seeing you as someone who should always be in the room.”
  • Join coalitions, boards, and advisory committees. There is strength—and visibility—in numbers.
  • Learn how decisions get made and show up. Your voice belongs wherever rules are written and resources are allocated.

“We are more powerful together,” she reminded us. Advocacy, she explained, changes perceptions, shapes policy, and builds a culture of respect—one that focuses on people’s strengths and contributions.

Telling Your Story (On Your Terms)

If public advocacy feels intimidating, Nicole gets it. “To be an advocate, you do not have to share every part of who you are… Share what you are comfortable sharing,” she said. The key is to communicate “from a place of love, respect, and honesty.” Whether you post on social media, write an op-ed, speak at a council meeting, or mentor a student, your story can spark someone else’s courage.

“Your voice, and your story, matters,” Nicole said. “Each of us has the power to make change in our unique way.”

A New Book, and a Lasting Charge

Nicole also celebrated the release of her biography, With Love as Her Compass, which traces her journey and the community that made it possible. She read a passage that felt like the thesis of the evening:

“When we start living by the founding principles of this country, where everyone has the right to pursue happiness, that’s when I know the world is changing. And it starts with each of us. It starts at home. It starts in our classrooms. It starts in our communities.”

As the Q&A wrapped, Nicole left us with a simple invitation: stand up, even when it’s hard; find your voice; lead with love. That’s how we elevate every voice—and build a Bay Area where people with disabilities don’t just belong; they lead.

Keep the Momentum Going

Thank you, Nicole, for launching this series with so much clarity, courage, and heart. We’re honored to be part of the love revolution you’re leading.