As we celebrate Black History Month, built upon observances established in 1915 by historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland, we honor the contributions and legacies of Black Americans. This annual observance, officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976, provides an opportunity to examine how intersecting identities shape individual experiences and societal barriers.
The concept of intersectionality reminds us that people often live with multiple marginalized identities, facing compound challenges that significantly impact their life experiences and opportunities. During my doctoral research for Journeys Through Rough Country, I uncovered stark disparities within the blind community — totally blind Black women experienced the lowest income levels, while white males with some level of usable vision earned the highest incomes.
Three remarkable figures exemplify the intersection of race and disability in the fight for civil rights. Harriet Tubman, despite living with epilepsy, chronic dizziness, and hypersomnia from a severe head injury, conducted 13 dangerous Underground Railroad missions. Her seizures, which she described as bringing vivid premonitions, may have helped her avoid capture while leading hundreds of enslaved people to freedom.
Sojourner Truth, born Isabella Baumfree, overcame both slavery and a permanent hand disability. When denied promised freedom due to this disability, she escaped with her infant daughter and later successfully sued to recover her son — becoming one of the first Black women to win a court case against a white man. Her powerful oratory, including the famous Ain’t I a Woman? speech, challenged both racial and gender stereotypes.
Brad Lomax brought together the disability rights and Black Power movements in the 1970s. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis while attending Howard University, he became a key figure in both the Black Panther Party and disability rights activism. Lomax helped establish the East Oakland Center for Independent Living and played a crucial role in the 1977 504 Sit-in, where the Black Panthers provided vital support to disability rights protesters.
Disability knows no demographic boundaries — it crosses all racial, ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic lines. This universal nature makes disability inclusion a unique lever for advancing broader equity. When organizations truly commit to disability inclusion, they create more accessible and welcoming environments for all marginalized groups.
The path forward requires intentional effort to understand and address these overlapping challenges. By learning from historical examples while acknowledging current realities, we can work toward a future where all people, regardless of their combination of identities, can thrive and contribute their unique talents to society.
” Inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s a strategic advantage. “
Dr. Kirk Adams, Ph.D.
Advocate, Leader and Keynote Speaker on Disability Inclusion & Leadership
Leading the Way to Accessible Innovation
Innovative Impact, LLC Consulting
Managing Director
Impactful Workforce Inclusion Starts Here
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