DISABILITY IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY

What defines the Black experience with disability, illness, injury, and healthcare in the U.S.? The CDC reports that 1-in-4 Black Americans have a disability. How can their testimonies and views guide and embolden people in Black communities and beyond – including those who do not yet have a disability?

In her op-ed on the topic, Desiree Mwalimu-Banks honors Black activists who advanced disability rights from the 1940s onward. Reflecting on recent events closer to home, she writes, “Disability Justice and its presence within the Black community became personal for my family.”

Disability policy strategist Day Al-Mohamed has noted that “disability is one of the only identities that can happen to anyone at any time.” Next year, the U.S. will mark the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. As the rights and ideals upheld by those documents are subjected to increasing stress, what happens when Disability Justice becomes personal for us all?

PROGRAM

3:45-4:00 Doors

4:00-4:15 Welcome

4:15-4:45 Live reading by Desiree Mwalimu-Banks of her article, “Falling into FSHD and Disability in the Black Community.” Cello accompaniment by Sarah Overton.

4:45-5:45 Panel discussion with Russell Frederick and Mikel Mwalimu-Banks. Moderated by Niama Safia Sandy.

5:45-6:20 Audience Q&A

6:20-6:30 Closing Remarks

6:30 Event Over

Curator: Brian Tate

Co-Hosts: Tate Strategy and Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church.

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