For as long as Black folks have existed on this planet— Brilliant Black Disabled folks have been here contributing to the world in meaningful ways. Brilliance manifests in the arts, culture, engineering and so much more. Often we are seen and not heard, -or- heard and rarely seen. Regardless, it is important that we uplift and make ourselves visible. Visibility can be uncomfortable at times, especially when some of us are accustomed to being dismissed and diminished. So you may be asking yourself: “how do I show the world, my community, or even my family the brilliance I have?”
Well, the incredibly wise founder of Ramp Your Voice, Vilissa Thompson, has some key suggestions:
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Being YOU is the only job you have. Your existence is significant alone.
Black disabled people have always made space for us when others fail to see us. We don’t have to beg to be seen; we’re seen among each other.
Being disabled and Black are realities that the world must learn of; to shrink ourselves does a disservice to the truths we hold in our very DNA.
The RYV! squad works hard to preserve and uplift the brilliance that the Black Disabled community has. Join us on Friday, June 5, 2026 for our virtual conference. Our theme this year is “Remembrance and Honor: Remembering who we are as we press forward.” You will undoubtedly encounter a wonderful community of unbossed brilliance!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Image Description: A brown skinned Black Femme smiling with their eyes closed with text that reads: “The Ramp Your Voice! Conference” Remembrance & Honor | Remembering Who We Are As We Press Forward