Black disabled leaders have played a critical role in shaping social, political and economic progress in the United States, yet their disabilities are often left out of the historical record. Leaders like Fannie Lou Hamer, Brad Lomax, Audrey Lorde and Barbara Jordan advanced civil rights, disability justice, education and political representation, even as they navigated barriers created by inaccessible systems. NDI works to ensure disability is recognized as a vital part of economic inclusion, leadership and opportunity, both in history and today.