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As we celebrate Black History Month, LIFESPAN Services recognizes the incredible contributions of five Black leaders who have paved the way for disability rights. Their work has shaped policies, challenged barriers, and created a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
Brad Lomax: Bridging the Civil Rights and Disability Rights Movements
Brad Lomax was a key figure in both the Black Panther Party and the disability rights movement. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Lomax understood firsthand the struggles of accessibility and equal opportunity. In the 1970s, he played a vital role in the historic 504 Sit-in, where activists demanded enforcement of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which prohibited discrimination against people with disabilities in federally funded programs. With the support of the Black Panthers, who provided food and resources, the sit-in lasted for 26 days and became a turning point in disability rights advocacy.
Johnnie Lacy: Fighting for Education and Inclusion
Johnnie Lacy was a powerful advocate for disabled individuals, particularly within the Black community. After contracting polio in her youth, she faced discrimination when pursuing her education. Despite being denied full participation at San Francisco State University due to her disability, she fought back and later became a leading voice in independent living services. She was a founding director of the Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL), an organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities live independently.
Fannie Lou Hamer: Advocating for All Voices
Fannie Lou Hamer is best known for her work in the civil rights movement, but she was also a disability advocate. After surviving forced sterilization and living with the effects of polio, Hamer fought tirelessly for voting rights and healthcare access, particularly for Black individuals with disabilities. Her famous words, "Nobody’s free until everybody’s free," continue to resonate today in the fight for equality.
LeDerick Horne: Champion for Disability Awareness and Education
LeDerick Horne is a poet, speaker, and advocate who has used his voice to raise awareness about learning disabilities. Diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age, Horne overcame challenges in the education system and now works to empower students with disabilities. His advocacy focuses on equitable education, highlighting the intersection of race and disability and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
Claudia Gordon: Breaking Barriers in Law and Policy
Claudia Gordon is a trailblazer in disability rights law. As the first Black Deaf woman to become an attorney in the U.S., she has dedicated her career to fighting for equal access and opportunities. She has worked with the National Council on Disability, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the White House Office of Public Engagement, ensuring that policies are inclusive and address the needs of the disability community.
A Legacy of Change
These leaders—and many others—have shaped the landscape of disability rights, ensuring that the fight for justice includes all individuals, regardless of race or ability. As we honor Black History Month, let’s continue to uplift and support the voices of those working toward a more accessible and inclusive future!