Disability Justice in the Movement for Racial Justice: A Radically Intersectional Framework

In today's society, it has become increasingly important to address the intersections of race, class, gender, sexuality, faith, language, and nation that affect the lives of disabled individuals. Lydia X.Z. Brown, a renowned advocate, organizer, educator, attorney, strategist, and writer, emphasizes the importance of disability justice in the movement for racial justice.

According to Brown, disability justice is a radically intersectional framework necessary to sharpen our political analysis, clarify our demands, and shape our everyday activism and organizing practice. This approach recognizes that disabled people living at the intersections of these various identities face unique challenges and forms of oppression. By centering the experiences and leadership of disabled individuals, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Brown's work has had a significant impact on the disability rights movement. As an Adjunct Lecturer in Disability Studies at Georgetown University and Adjunct Professorial Lecturer in American Studies at American University's Department of Critical Race, Gender, and Culture Studies, they have taught courses that focus on disability justice and intersectionality. Brown has also founded the Fund for Community Reparations for Autistic People of Color's Interdependence, Survival, and Empowerment, which provides financial support to autistic people of color who are organizing for their rights.

In addition to their academic and advocacy work, Brown is currently creating a tarot deck called Disability Justice Wisdom Tarot. This project aims to provide a tool for disabled individuals to access spiritual guidance and self-care practices that are tailored to their experiences and needs.

Brown's expertise extends beyond academia and activism. They have provided consulting, training, and workshops to various organizations, including nonprofit organizations, services agencies, colleges, and universities, on topics such as radical access and inclusion. They also serve on the board of directors for several organizations, including the Alliance for Citizen Directed Supports, and advisory boards for organizations like the Transgender Law Center.

As a member of the American Bar Association's Commission on Disability Rights, chairperson of the ABA Civil Rights and Social Justice Section's Disability Rights Committee, and representative of the Disability Justice Committee to the National Lawyers Guild's National Executive Committee, Brown plays a crucial role in shaping disability rights policy. They are also Policy Counsel for Disability Rights and Algorithmic Fairness for the Privacy and Data Project at the Center for Democracy and Technology and Director of Policy, Advocacy, and External Affairs for the Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network.

In conclusion, Lydia X.Z. Brown's work embodies the principles of disability justice in the movement for racial justice. Their advocacy, education, and policy work have made a significant impact on the lives of disabled individuals and continue to shape the future of disability rights. By centering the experiences and leadership of disabled people, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society that recognizes and addresses state and interpersonal violence targeting disabled people living at the intersections of race, class, gender, sexuality, faith, language, and nation.

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