Dear Friends and Colleagues,
The National Council on Independent Living would like to take the time to say Happy Black History Month!
NCIL celebrates Black History Month because Black history is a part of our history. We cannot deny that there has been a disconnect in recognizing and including other marginalized populations, such as people of color, within the Independent Living Movement. That is why we are making intentional efforts to bring solidarity into disability advocacy. We encourage all of our members to acknowledge and celebrate Black History Month with us. Below, you can find some information about Black History and Black disability advocates. We encourage you to share these narratives with your staff and members.
According to the 2010 US Census, disability prevalence is highest among African Americans at 22.2 percent. Almost a quarter of African Americans experience disability. We celebrate the Black lives, leaders, and advocacy that are a powerful force in our movement. Together, we continue to move forward to ensure the success of the Independent Living Movement.
- Black Disabled Women
- Black History Month
- Black, Disabled, and Proud: College Students with Disabilities
- African Americans and the Disability Experience
- Police Violence Against People With Disabilities
Image description: (From left to right) Fannie Lou Hamer, Malcolm X, Caxmee, Kajieme Powell, and James Baldwin.
