Grand Rapids Hosts the 2025 National Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant Celebrating Disability Advocacy

Grand Rapids welcomes the return of the National Ms. Wheelchair America pageant, a prominent event celebrating women advocates from across the United States. This year's competition, taking place from August 18 to 24 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, brings together contestants representing 21 states who exemplify leadership, advocacy, and achievement for individuals with disabilities. The event aims to empower women in wheelchairs to voice their experiences and champion accessibility, inclusion, and awareness for over 70 million Americans living with disabilities. The week-long program includes leadership development sessions, advocacy workshops, mentorship opportunities, and judging panels. While competing for the title of Ms. Wheelchair America 2026, participants also foster camaraderie and collaborate on initiatives to drive societal change. Partnerships with organizations like the Mary Free Bed Guild, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for those with disabilities since 1891, underscore the event's significance. Public attendees can participate in speech night on Friday, where contestants share their personal stories, and attend the grand finale on Saturday evening, bot...