Celebrate Black History Month 2025: Showcasing Black and Disabled Creators
By Jocelyn Watson, 2022 - 2025 Sonoran Center Trainee
It’s February, which means it is officially Black History Month in the United States! Many Americans take this month to remember and acknowledge the painful history of oppression and racism against African Americans in our country. While it is very important to recognize the discrimination this demographic has faced and still presently faces, this is also a time to celebrate all the contributions Black and African American people have made throughout history.
In this article, we are paying tribute to Black and Disabled Creators who have used their platform to do just that. This Black History Month, our aim is to continue to uplift, empower, strengthen and encourage the Black and Disability community!
“At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about what you’ve done with those accomplishments. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” —Denzel Washington
The Anti Ableist Art Educators Manifesto by Jennifer White Johnson
A tool to bring awareness and combat any stigmas that exist surrounding the Black and Brown disabled community, while also embracing the power of creative expression. The Anti Ableist Art Educators Manifesto is available online in both English and Spanish, and is free to download for anyone!
Oshún and Me: A Story of Love and Braids by Adiba Nelson
https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250891150/oshunandmeastoryofloveandbraids/
In this children’s book, Adiba shares the story of Yadi, her beautiful hair and Afro-Latino heritage. Yadi hears the story of the goddess Oshún from her Mami, and learns the importance of embracing her roots and always being herself.
Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem by Amanda Gorman
A children’s story about a young girl who uses her passion for music to lead a group of characters through a journey of empowerment. Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem teaches readers that everyone has the power to make a difference in their community.
The Perseverance by Raymond Antrobus
A collection of poems inspired by the life experiences of Raymond Antrobus, a bi-racial Deaf poet. All poems feature both spoken and sign, emphasizing the themes of communication and identity.
Black Madness :: Mad Blackness by Therí Alyce Pickens
This publication dives deep to examine the relationship between Blackness and Disability. Pickens encourages readers to challenge different constructs, formed by stigmas, that surround Black and Disability communities.
Makenna the Mighty by Dr. Brandy James
A children’s book showcasing the inspiring journey of a little girl named Makenna, who lives with childhood illness. This book showcases themes of empowerment and strength through the perspective of this courageous young girl’s story.
Refusing to Be Made Whole: Disability in Black Women’s Writing by Dr. Anna LaQuawn Hinton
Author Anna LaQuawn Hinton challenges societal ideologies surrounding Black Women and Disability. Through the exploration of various intersections between spirituality, race, and disability, this publication encourages readers to embrace all facets of Disability and Black Womanhood.
Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw: Reimagining Success as a Disabled Achiever by Eddie Ndopu
Eddie Ndopu was born with spinal muscular atrophy, which did not deter his desire to thrive. This book is a memoir in which Ndopu shares his journey towards success and all the hurdles he had to overcome along the way.
Cultivating An Intersectional Mindset: A 30 Day Guided Journal by Luticha Andre Doucette
This 30-day guided journal presents prompts to help navigate thoughts and feelings surrounding the topics of equality, inclusion, diversity and intersectionality. A wonderful way to connect with ideas of social change and continue the development of critical thinking skills.
The Lizzy O: Personal Blog
The personal blog of Lizzy O, a mother of 2 living with a Spinal Cord injury. This blog features content about Lizzy’s family, personal life, fashion and more!
Ramp Your Voice Conference founded by Vilissa Thompson
Video recording of the 2024 Inaugural Ramp Your Voice conference. This conference aims to uplift, affirm and highlight the voices of Black and Disabled people. In addition to presenting facts and data, this conference is designed to showcase talents, passions and creativity across this community.
Black Disabled Men Talks
A website and podcast created by Black men living with disabilities. The podcast features both light-hearted and serious topics, such as: family, masculinity, police brutality, setting goals and more!
Dope Black Disabled Podcast
A podcast that aims to educate, uplift and inspire its audience about the Black and Disabled community. Podcast hosts and guests share stories and experiences related to each episode topic.
Black Women and Girls with Disabilities
A multi-media series presented by The Center for American Progress that highlights stories, stigmas and hardships Black Women with Disabilities living in the United States experience throughout their lives.