Black History Month is a time to honor individuals, communities, and moments that shape the struggle for Black people with disabilities to live in an inclusive and equitable society. It is also an opportunity to recognize self-advocates with Down syndrome whose lives and work are expanding visibility and representation.
In this blog post, we highlight four Black people with Down syndrome whose stories are role models for all people with and without Down syndrome.
Farad Mills is the author of The Adventures of Farad J (2019), a children’s book that follows a fun-loving and spirited teen, Farad J., and his sidekick, Sanie. Both enjoy taking adventures, especially those that involve pranks. Farad, who has Down syndrome, created the story to share his creativity and love of storytelling with readers of all ages. Learn More
Courtney Gaines is an advocate, actress, model, and the namesake for Courtney’s Law (2022), Oklahoma legislation—which she advocated for—that requires health care providers to give accurate information about chromosomal disorders. Learn More.
Ronnie Brown—owner, entrepreneur, model, and French fry aficionado—is known across Austin, Texas as “The Fry Guy.” Ronnie has Down syndrome and used a feeding tube until he was six years old. Since 2020, Ronnie and his sister, LaTasha, have operated a small business selling fries and building community. Learn More
Jeremiah Daniels (he/him) is an actor who starred as Mason in the feature film Color Book (2024). The film follows a single father navigating parenthood after the death of Mason’s mother. Jeremiah was nominated for a 2024 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance. As a Black actor with Down syndrome, Jeremiah is contributing to increased representation in film of Black people with intellectual disabilities. Learn more.
