Anixter Center’s Post

📣 Check out our latest blog post for Black History Month! ✊🏿 We're highlighting the power of intersectionality and celebrating the incredible achievements of three remarkable Black individuals with disabilities. Despite facing multiple systemic barriers, these trailblazers have made significant contributions to society, inspiring us all to break down barriers and strive for equality. Read their inspiring stories on our blog now! #BlackHistoryMonth #Intersectionality #DisabilityRights #E4Texas 📚🖊️

Disability is an equal opportunity 'diversity' group - transcending gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. and the way that we think about it, discuss it and treat it has changed tremendously over the course of my lifetime. Any one of us might become disabled in our working lifetime, with 80% of disabilities being acquired between the ages of 18 and 64. In the UK, nearly 7 million people of working age have a disability or a chronic health condition, however 96% are not visible. More worryingly for our economy and public health, 73% of adults with disabilities stop working. Perhaps this is why the new Labour Government plans to extend the legal requirement of pay gap reporting and equal pay to people with disabilities (and ethnic minorities ..... can you believe that this wasn't already the law?!) Hence, this is now the hot topic I'm discussing with clients all the time. To brush up on my knowledge in this area, yesterday I attended the #d&iLeaders #DisabilityatWork conference and received a much appreciated deep-dive into the community that supports and advocates for employees with disabilities. As ever, the community is diverse, and so are preferences and practices, including the evolving disability vernacular: eg able-bodied versus non-disabled; the meaning and impact of 'reasonable' adjustments and whether or not the term 'disclosure' implies that there is shame in sharing a part of your identity. It was an impressive line up and you should look up these people and reach out them - I know I will! https://lnkd.in/e3ympfiJ. If you'd like to learn more yourself, check out #PurpleSpace https://lnkd.in/e7qM5i_e and #theValuable500 https://lnkd.in/eYDbPWPc. Also, learn more about how to prepare for the proposed UK government changes on our website: https://lnkd.in/eTP6CVi6. Mark Baker FRSA Kate Nash OBE 💜Katy Talikowska Tilly Harries Eve Pearman Olivia Jervis Katy Bennett Kim Whippy Anne Hurst, Kasia Jazeel Jason Buwanabala Anika M. Dean Farthing Sarah Ashcroft Ed Stacey

“African American workers and job seekers with disabilities represent a diverse, talented group that can fill workforce gaps and be a part of the solution.” Learn more about the important work that the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) is doing.

Absolutely inspired these days as I dive deeper into understanding the experiences of autistic college students, especially those within BIPOC communities. Part of this journey is uncovering the lived stories and documented experiences that often remain underrepresented. Recently, I came across an insightful panel discussion and I had to share it. One quote in particular struck me: “In our society, we need to focus on reframing what Black excellence looks like to include disability.” This simple yet profound statement highlights how true inclusion means embracing the diversity of all experiences and identities. It’s a reminder that excellence isn’t a one-size-fits-all mold. For our institutions to serve everyone, we need to listen to these voices, elevate them, and ensure that students from every background feel valued and seen. Normally, I focus on advocating in the realm of sexual violence prevention, but this is another critical area where college environments need to improve. Here’s to making college a place where all students can thrive! https://lnkd.in/eMGcBcdT

**July is Disability Pride Month!** ✊🏾 We're celebrating the history, achievements, and perseverance of the disability community by highlighting the unique struggles faced by Black disabled people. Throughout history, many Black leaders' disabilities have been erased or overlooked. Harriet Tubman, who had epileptic seizures, and Thomas Wiggins, a blind pianist, are just two examples of the rich, yet often hidden, legacy of Black disabled leaders. As Black disabled people, we navigate the compounded challenges of racism and ableism. This double marginalization leads to disparities in our education, employment, healthcare, and justice. For instance, over 50% of Black disabled people are arrested by age 28, and a significant number of us end up victims of police violence. During disasters, our needs are frequently neglected, leading to worse outcomes compared to our white counterparts. Recognizing the history and struggles of Black disabled leaders like Fannie Lou Hamer, Brad Lomax, and Audre Lorde is crucial. Their stories provide a comprehensive perspective on civil rights and disability rights movements. We will continue to work towards a future that acknowledges and includes the experiences of Black disabled individuals by sharing our stories, challenging ableism and racism, and striving for a truly inclusive society. #DisabilityPrideMonth #BlackDisabledLeaders #Intersectionality #ADA #DisabilityJustice #bwinhinc #blackwomxnlead

**July is Disability Pride Month!** ✊🏾 We're celebrating the history, achievements, and perseverance of the disability community by highlighting the unique struggles faced by Black disabled people. Throughout history, many Black leaders' disabilities have been erased or overlooked. Harriet Tubman, who had epileptic seizures, and Thomas Wiggins, a blind pianist, are just two examples of the rich, yet often hidden, legacy of Black disabled leaders. As Black disabled people, we navigate the compounded challenges of racism and ableism. This double marginalization leads to disparities in our education, employment, healthcare, and justice. For instance, over 50% of Black disabled people are arrested by age 28, and a significant number of us end up victims of police violence. During disasters, our needs are frequently neglected, leading to worse outcomes compared to our white counterparts. Recognizing the history and struggles of Black disabled leaders like Fannie Lou Hamer, Brad Lomax, and Audre Lorde is crucial. Their stories provide a comprehensive perspective on civil rights and disability rights movements. We will continue to work towards a future that acknowledges and includes the experiences of Black disabled individuals by sharing our stories, challenging ableism and racism, and striving for a truly inclusive society. #DisabilityPrideMonth #BlackDisabledLeaders #Intersectionality #ADA #DisabilityJustice #bwinhinc #blackwomxnlead

This is a terrific list of Black disabled activists and advocates who are making waves in social justice. In celebration of Black History Month, learn more about these twelve leaders. https://lnkd.in/g3v-qbW6

Alt text : Vibrant image celebrating Black History Month with a central circle adorned in the colors of African heritage - orange, red, green, and golden yellow. The dates 'Feb 01 to Mar 01' encircle the central design, featuring the New York Association on Independent Living banner and the NYAIL house logo, embodying unity and diversity. 🌟 Inspire Together: Celebrating Black History Month & the Disability Rights Movement 🌈 Step into the heart of unity as we joyfully embrace Black History Month 🎉💙 Join us in celebrating the powerful connection between Black history and the Disability Rights Movement, weaving a tapestry of resilience and shared empowerment. 💡 Shared Empowerment: Within the intricate threads of Black history, we discover stories of triumph and justice. This month, let's unite to honor those who've paved the way for equality, creating a legacy of inclusivity that inspires generations. 🌍 Intersecting Journeys: The Disability Rights Movement, interwoven with Black history, showcases strength born from adversity. Explore the narratives of leaders like Harriet Tubman and Fannie Lou Hamer, proving that disability enhances, rather than diminishes, the call for justice. 🎤 Amplifying Voices: Join us in elevating stories often overlooked. By celebrating the achievements of Black disabled leaders, we amplify voices that inspire, educate, and foster understanding, creating a more inclusive society. 🌟 Why Celebrate Together? Because We Inspire One Another: This month exemplifies the power of unity. By celebrating together, we bridge gaps, challenge norms, and envision a world where inclusivity reigns supreme. Share your thoughts using #InspireTogether, turning this celebration into a collective experience. Together, we inspire one another because our stories, intertwined and celebrated, truly amplify the strength within each narrative. 🌟💚 #CelebrateUnity #InspireTogether #BlackHistoryMonth

So honored to get to be a part of this! Check out the discussion on YAI’s YouTube Channel!