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Black Disability Activists

In honor of Black History Month, learn about the extraordinary leadership from Black Disability Activists. Figures like Lois Curtis and Johnnie Lacy's work and commitment to public service advanced disability rights in Black communities. Youth, young adults, and adults have benefitted from these Black pioneers in advocacy, activism, health, and mental health. 

Featuring…

Recognizing Black Disability Rights

Lois Curtis was diagnosed with cognitive disabilities at the age of 11. Curtis and her treatment team or support knew she could live in a community and not be confined in an institution. But the state refused to support her financially. She led the fight for her independence and against the segregation of people with disabilities. 

All the way to the United States Supreme Court in 1999, Olmstead v. L.C. The Court ruled in her favor by deeming it unconstitutional to remain at an institution. Thanks to Lois Curtis, people with disabilities have the right to live freely in their communities. Read more on Black leaders like this in The Center for Learner Equity's Black Disability Rights Activist featurettes.

Obsidian 

Black Artists + Designers designed a virtual concept house to build a more equitable and inclusive community space. An online statement that can be explored to redefine decades of social inequity into empowerment for millions of Black families in the United States.  

What are you doing to learn about the rich history of Black leaders and change agents in the United States? Let us know in the comments below! For youth and young adults, ages 13-26, join us on the SPAN Youth Chat on Wednesdays from 3:30-4:00 PM.

Resources...

Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org 

Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know

We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726

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