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
Comments