Tuesday, November 21, 2023
"Aloha, it was with great sadness and heavy heart to hear this past week of the death of Dr. Steven Brown. Steve served for many years as a professor of Disability Studies at the Center on Disability Studies, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. He was lead investigator on numerous projects working to improve the quality-of-life experience for persons with disabilities across the globe.Further, Steve was respected internationally as an activist and advocate for the rights of all persons with disabilities. He was one of the original advocates for applying the social model of disability and establishing disability culture as a way of supporting disability pride. Steve was considered the father of Disability Culture and published widely in this field of study. He also was one of the leaders in defining disability studies, as well as originating and teaching several courses in the Center on Disabilities Studies certificate program. First and foremost, Steve was a solid person and a good friend, always focused upon improving the life experience of those around him. It was my great fortune to have known Steve Brown and he will be sorely missed by everyone. At this difficult time, my heart goes out to Lillian, Steve's partner in life."
- Robert A. Stodden, Founding Director, Center on Disability Studies, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa