For Immediate Release: December 19, 2024
Contact: support@withkeri.com
Washington, DC , December 2024 – The National Alliance of Melanin Disabled Advocates (NAMED Advocates), a leading organization at the forefront of promoting racial and disability justice, is proud to announce the award of a $1 million grant from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) to support the groundbreaking project, “Rethinking Language in Science.” This two-year initiative aims to bring together racial justice, disability justice, and patient advocates to develop a unified language framework.
The project responds to concerns from disability leaders about the existing scientific discourse, which often frames disabilities as abnormal and problems to be solved, rather than embracing the diversity of human conditions. Moreover, the intersectionality of race and disability adds another layer of complexity. Historically, the pseudoscience of eugenics was often used to justify harmful practices such as forced sterilizations and institutionalization, disproportionately affecting people of color and those with disabilities.
Through the Rethinking Language in Science Project, the NAMED Advocates will host conversations among scientists, disability advocates, and racial justice leaders. Their goal is to develop a way of speaking about science and health that everyone can embrace. “The support for this project is a testament to the importance of our mission to rethink and reshape the language in scientific research and across our communities,” said Keri Gray, Executive Director at NAMED Advocates. “This project not only aims to correct historical biases but also to create a more equitable and understanding research community that recognizes the value and dignity of all individuals.”
The cornerstone of this project is the development of a shared language that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the diverse experiences across these groups. By establishing a common language that is embraced by both the scientific community and advocacy groups, the NAMED Advocates aims to catalyze new research approaches and innovations that are more considerate of and beneficial to those who have historically been alienated by mainstream scientific narratives.
The initiative is particularly significant as it forms an exciting collaboration between the NAMED Advocates and CZI’s Rare as One Project, which is committed to supporting patient-led organizations in accelerating research and improving the lives of people affected by rare diseases. “The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s commitment to supporting innovative approaches to solving society’s toughest challenges aligns with the goals of the ‘Rethinking Language in Science’ project, said Andra Stratton, Program Manager at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. “We are excited to partner with the NAMED Advocates to bring together leaders across disability justice and rare disease. We believe that people most impacted by the problem should be at the forefront in creating solutions. By addressing scientific language that can reinforce ableist narratives, advocates within the scientific community are better poised to catalyze significant advancements in treatment, care, bodily autonomy, and overall quality of life for individuals with rare diseases.”
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This work is possible thanks to the NAMED Advocates partnership with ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia (ECNV) as the organization’s fiscal sponsor. For more details about the “Rethinking Language in Science” project and other work by the NAMED Advocates, please visit their website.
About the NAMED Advocates
The National Alliance of Melanin Disabled Advocates(NAMED Advocates) is committed to advancing racial and disability justice through advocacy, education, and strategic initiatives aimed at building a more inclusive society. Follow @namedadvocates on Instagram and Facebook.
About the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative was founded in 2015 to help solve some of society’s toughest challenges — from eradicating disease and improving education, to addressing the needs of our local communities. Our mission is to build a more inclusive, just, and healthy future for everyone. For more information, please visit www.chanzuckerberg.com.
