NAMED Advocates is proud to announce that the organization has officially been recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit. This milestone affirms what the community has long known to be true: the work, mission, and leadership of NAMED Advocates are vital to strengthening movements for racial equity and Disability Justice nationwide.
Founded in the wake of protest and collective action, NAMED Advocates was created to center the leadership, wisdom, and lived experiences of Black and brown disabled people. Since its inception, the organization has been committed to building unapologetic spaces where disabled leaders of color can gather, connect, learn, and grow — while shifting narratives, influencing policy, and challenging systemic inequities.
Our work began from a place of urgency and purpose. We knew then — and we know now — that disabled leaders of color deserve to thrive, to be heard, and to shape the systems that impact our lives. Becoming a 501(c)(3) strengthens our ability to continue that mission with even greater stability and impact.
Over the years, NAMED Advocates has organized powerful initiatives and community-centered actions, including:
- Names and Frames of Disabled Leaders of Color
- #SayTheirNames of Black Disabled folks
- NAMED Advocates call for action around racial justice
- #BLM & #BDLM Protest
- Our Presence is Our Power Summit
This achievement reflects the collective labor, vision, and commitment of NAMED’s Board, team, partners, and fiscal sponsors who have supported and strengthened the organization since its earliest days.
“This moment represents years of dedication, cross-movement collaboration, and community care,”says NAMED Advocates Founder and Executive Director, Keri Gray. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who believed in this work, invested in our leadership, and helped us build something that will outlast all of us.”
The transition to 501(c)(3) status marks a new chapter for NAMED Advocates, positioning the organization to expand programming, deepen partnerships, and further advance disability justice and racial equity across communities.
NAMED Advocates will share additional updates in the coming weeks regarding operational shifts, partnership opportunities, and expanded initiatives.
About NAMED Advocates
The National Alliance of Melanin Disabled Advocates (NAMED Advocates) creates spaces for disabled leaders of color and BIPOC allies to gather, learn, connect, and grow around racial and Disability Justice. Through advocacy, community care, and movement-building, NAMED works to reshape narratives, challenge systemic inequities, and build a world where disability leadership thrives.
Media Contact:
Mary Fashik
Marketing & Partnerships Coordinator
mfashik@namedadvocates.org
