Jakeel Abdullah

Jakeel Abdullah is a fervent champion for multi-marginalized communities, particularly those at the intersection of race, sexual orientation, and disability. His advocacy for the Black community is intertwined with his broader mission of promoting equality and social justice. Through his leadership roles and involvement with organizations like New Orleans Advocates for LGBTQ+ Elders, Jakeel has consistently worked to address the unique challenges faced by individuals who identify as multi-marginalized. By amplifying their voices and advocating for inclusive policies, he strives to dismantle systemic barriers and create supportive environments where every individual can thrive.

In his commitment to the disability community, Jakeel brings a nuanced understanding of the layered experiences of those living with disabilities. His work on the Regional Advisory Committee for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities of Orleans Parish and Disability Rights Louisiana underscores his dedication to enhancing accessibility and rights for people with disabilities. Jakeel’s involvement in Louisiana’s Partners in Policymaking program and the L.E.N.D. (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities) program at Louisiana State University’s Human Development Center reflects his ongoing efforts to influence and reform policies at local, state, and academic levels. His advocacy is driven by a vision of a society where individuals with disabilities are fully integrated and valued, free from discrimination and able to access the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives.

Furthermore, Jakeel’s intersectional approach is evident in his work for other Black LGBTQ+ individuals who also live with disabilities, recognizing the compounded discrimination they face. By addressing the specific needs of this community, Jakeel advocates for comprehensive, intersectional policies that cater to their unique experiences. His role as a citizen diplomat has allowed him to bring these issues to the forefront in international dialogues, ensuring that the voices of multi-marginalized individuals are heard and considered in global disability and human rights discussions. Jakeel’s holistic advocacy exemplifies his commitment to building a more just and inclusive world for all. While achieving his life’s motto of “Dream not of what you are, but of what you can become”.