Our Mission
Our mission is to support the intersection of Black identity and disability, recognizing the distinct experiences, struggles, and resilience within this community. We aim to create pathways for advocacy, visibility, and access to critical resources, building a more inclusive and equitable state for Black New Jerseyans with disabilities.
Through educational programs, workshops, and partnerships with local organizations, we strive to:
Advocate
Advocate for systemic change in policies that affect the Black disability community.
Connect
Connect individuals to resources and networks for employment, education, health, and accessibility.
Empower
Empower Black disabled New Jerseyans to embrace their identities, pursue opportunities, and overcome barriers.
Educate
Educate the broader public on the experiences of Black people with disabilities, fostering greater understanding and allyship.
The NJ Black Disability Initiative
Envisions a New Jersey where Black individuals with disabilities can thrive and feel fully included in all aspects of society. We work toward a future where racial and disability justice intersect to bring transformative change. Together, we’re building a movement rooted in resilience, advocacy, and unity.
The Consortium
In 2022, an important movement began in New Jersey, bringing together a diverse group of advocates, leaders, and professionals. Organizations like the NAACP, the New Jersey Association of Black Social Workers, and the New Jersey Association of Black Psychologists joined forces to achieve a shared goal: the creation of the New Jersey Black I/DD Consortium. This group is dedicated to enhancing the lives and opportunities of Black residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families.
Get Involved
Interested in helping support the NJ Black Disability Initiative?