Leon Ford's Vision for a Thriving Future

Five years ago, I penned “America Whooped My Ass And I Still Smile.” It was an honest reflection of a young Black man in a wheelchair, grappling with anger and hope. Today, my smile has evolved—it's fortified by introspection and resilience. Conversations with my mentors reveal an undeniable weight on our shoulders. Yet, I’ve learned to advocate for myself in a world that often overlooks. Our history empowers us; from struggle, we create beauty. We must uplift each other, embrace joy as resistance, and thrive together.