In This Moment: A Conversation on Race & Disability Justice
“The better we understand how identities and power work together from one context to another, the less likely our movements for change are to fracture.” - Kimberle’ Crenshaw
Disability justice and racial justice are inextricably linked. During this moment in time, it’s more important than ever to examine the intersectionality within our community to strengthen our collective power.
Join us for an intimate members-only chat featuring Eric Ward, civil rights strategist, philanthropic leader, cultural activist and Executive Vice President of Race Forward. Eric will be joined in conversation by Member Tayler Mathews (Fellow. 2024), current Public Policy Fellow at National Disability Institute.
Don’t miss this chance to hear Eric and Tayler’s powerful perspectives!
Reserve my spot now
About Eric Ward
Eric K. Ward is a nationally recognized civil rights leader, cultural strategist, and storyteller whose work bridges grassroots activism, philanthropy, and pop culture. As Executive Vice President of Race Forward, he leads efforts to dismantle systemic racism and advance inclusive democracy. With over three decades of leadership, Eric is known for addressing the intersections of authoritarianism, hate violence, and community resilience with clarity and innovation.
Rooted in the punk rock scene of the 1980s, Eric's early experiences instilled in him a lifelong belief in the power of culture and community to drive change. This perspective informs much of his work, from co-producing White With Fear, a documentary examining racial fear and its impact on American power structures, to supporting the Peabody Award-winning Halal in the Family, a groundbreaking project confronting Islamophobia through humor and storytelling.
In philanthropy, Eric has played pivotal roles at Atlantic Philanthropies and the Ford Foundation, where he championed initiatives to combat bigotry, support immigrant rights, and strengthen civil society. His insights from international work, including lessons from South Africa’s reconciliation efforts, have shaped his approach to addressing rising authoritarianism in the U.S.
Eric’s essay, Skin in the Game: How Antisemitism Animates White Nationalism, has become a key resource in understanding modern hate movements. His belief in the power of cultural spaces to inspire belonging is featured in We’ve Been Here Before: What the Punk Scene Can Teach Us About White Supremacy.
Honored as the only American recipient of the Civil Courage Prize, Eric’s work reflects a commitment to justice that is both principled and pragmatic. Whether advancing systemic change or celebrating the resilience of communities, Eric’s leadership is grounded in empathy, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the possibilities of an inclusive future.
