Black History Month: Honoring Legacy, Empowering the Future - 12 Influential Black Americans with Disabilities
InCommunity proudly joins the nation in recognizing Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black individuals in our communities and beyond.
From civil rights pioneers to modern changemakers, Black leaders have played a vital role in shaping society through their resilience, innovation, and advocacy. Their achievements continue to inspire progress, and we are committed to celebrating their impact.
At InCommunity, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment that amplifies Black voices, promotes equity, and encourages meaningful conversations.
Throughout history, Black Americans with disabilities have challenged societal limitations, breaking down barriers in activism, sports, music, business, and beyond. Their contributions have shaped culture, policy, and innovation, proving that disability does not define one’s potential. From historical figures to present-day trailblazers, here are 12 influential Black Americans with disabilities whose legacies continue to inspire change.
1. Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) – Freedom Fighter and Abolitionist
Despite living with epilepsy and narcolepsy due to a severe head injury, Harriet Tubman escaped slavery and became a leading abolitionist. She helped hundreds gain freedom through the Underground Railroad and later advocated for women’s rights and disability justice.
2. Fannie Lou Hamer (1917–1977) – Civil Rights Activist
A survivor of polio and forced sterilization, Fannie Lou Hamer was a fearless voting rights advocate. As co-founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, she fought for political representation and equal rights for Black Americans.
3. Johnnie Lacy (1937–2010) – Disability Rights Advocate
Diagnosed with polio at 19, Johnnie Lacy became a leading voice in the intersection of race and disability rights. She worked to ensure Black people with disabilities were included in broader civil rights conversations.
4. Brad Lomax (1950–1984) – Disability and Civil Rights Activist
A Black Panther Party member with multiple sclerosis, Brad Lomax was a key figure in the disability rights movement. His activism contributed to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for millions.
5. Haben Girma (b. 1988) – Disability Rights Lawyer
As the first Deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law, Haben Girma has dedicated her life to disability rights advocacy, working with institutions to promote inclusion and accessibility.
6. Claudia Gordon (b. 1972) – Attorney and Advocate
After losing her hearing at age 8, Claudia Gordon became the first Deaf Black female attorney in the U.S. She has worked in government and nonprofits, fighting for disability rights and workplace inclusivity.
7. Leroy Moore (b. 1967) – Poet and Activist
Born with cerebral palsy, Leroy Moore co-founded Krip-Hop Nation, a movement that uplifts disabled Black artists. He uses his writing and activism to address the intersection of racism and ableism in society.
8. Imani Barbarin (b. 1990s) – Social Commentator and Activist
A powerful voice on social media, Imani Barbarin, who has cerebral palsy, advocates for disability rights through digital storytelling, highlighting systemic inequalities and intersectionality.
9. Missy Elliott (b. 1971) – Music Icon and Innovator
Missy Elliott, a pioneering rapper, singer, and producer, has openly spoken about living with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid. Despite health challenges, she revolutionized hip-hop and remains a trailblazer in the music industry.
10. Simone Biles (b. 1997) – Olympic Champion and Mental Health Advocate
Regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, Simone Biles has ADHD and has also been vocal about prioritizing her mental health. Her courage in stepping back from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 to focus on her well-being sparked a global conversation about mental health in sports.
11. Clarence Page (b. 1947) – Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist
Award-winning journalist Clarence Page has ADHD and dyslexia. Despite facing early academic struggles, he built an exceptional career in journalism, becoming a leading columnist and commentator on race, politics, and social issues.
12. Daymond John (b. 1969) – Entrepreneur and Shark Tank Investor
Daymond John, the founder of FUBU and a judge on Shark Tank, has dyslexia. He has used his experiences to inspire others, advocating for financial literacy and entrepreneurship while proving that learning disabilities are not a limitation to success.
Redefining Strength and Success
These 12 remarkable individuals have redefined what it means to be successful while living with disabilities. Their stories serve as a reminder that barriers are meant to be broken, and inclusion should be at the heart of every movement. As we celebrate their achievements, we must continue working toward a world where disability rights, racial equity, and accessibility go hand in hand.