Hope, Advocacy, and the Road Ahead: The Future of the BIPOC Disability Community in Northern Virginia
The future for African American and BIPOC people with disabilities in Northern Virginia brings both hope and concern. There are positive changes at the local and state level that support families through community programs, inclusive services, and opportunities for greater independence. At the same time, changes at the federal level may reduce funding and limit supports that many families rely on, which could make it harder to access healthcare, housing, education, and employment. Families and funders are essential partners in protecting these services by speaking up, supporting community organizations, and ensuring that the voices of people with disabilities are heard. Working together will help make sure progress continues and that individuals and families can thrive.
In support of Black History Month, we asked a few ECNV staff members how they see the future of BIPOC/African American disability community:
“Standing together, speaking up, and speaking out. The future of the BIPOC community can change if we unite and continue the work—at home, in our communities, and with our families. The only way to raise awareness and challenge the barriers that hold us back is to come together and keep pushing for change in the systems that remain broken.”
–Kevina Brown, Mentor Coordinator
“I believe the future will look like the BIPOC/African American disabled community has focused on living independently in their community, by traveling independent, managing their (ILS) independent Living skills and advocating for their rights. The world already has change with the assistance of CIL's and other resources that did not exist in the 60's.”
-Karen Arnett, Travel Trainer
“Everyone deserves to live safely in their community and have full access to its opportunities, yet this is still not a reality for many especially in the African American disability community. As we reflect during Black History Month, advocacy feels as critical today—and for the future—as it was during the civil rights movements of the 1950s and 1960s. Remaining vigilant, informed, and engaged in current legislation is essential to protecting hard-won rights and equity for generations to come.”
-Pansy Walker, Senior Outreach and Expansion Coordinator
“This month, as a Black woman with disabilities, I admit it can be difficult to find something positive to lift up about the status of BIPOC people with disabilities but I had to remind myself that Dr. King witnessed injustices much like those we see today—the faces change, but the marginalization continues. While it’s necessary to mourn what’s broken and to take for yourself and your family time to permit yourselves every emotion, there were a few things I chose to keep close and that ultimately help me daily to keep going. Community reminds us that we are not alone—whether we protest, or write letters, or help our friends by sharing a smile across the way, or even the creative problem solving for complex situations that make up solution-oriented staff at ECNV, collectively we can always find a way. I also think about the kindness, even just a little bit of these small, but visible acts, prove there are more people working toward good than against it. Progress is never immediate and rarely painless, but history shows that even in the darkest times, people win when they refuse to give in (and yes, it takes a long time, but it is eventual.) The records show our triumphs even as they face erasure. Finally, we have choice: we can choose peace, still. We can lament our displeasure, and choose to lean on one another, and when the moment passes, offer a listening ear and keep moving forward. Community, kindness, choosing a positive outlook will always be integral to our hard-fought gains.”
– Tracee Garner, Program Manager Peer Supports
