2025-2026 Fannie Lou Hamer Cohort

About Fannie Lou Hamer

Fannie Lou Hamer was Black woman, civil rights leader, humanitarian, and grassroots organizer committed to nonviolent action for lasting change. Her work centered to expand equal opportunity, defend civil rights, and uphold fundamental liberties by advancing broader participation in American civic and public life for underrepresented and underserved groups, particularly across the state of Mississippi. After surviving polio as a child and navigating life with a physical disability, she committed herself to improving the lives of others by addressing hardship, instability, and injustice. She led efforts to elevate accessible voting, support equitable pay and workforce development, and reduce hunger and poverty. Her work was grounded in the core belief that human rights and well-being depend on access to economic security, meaningful employment, food security, affordable housing, fair treatment in healthcare, family-centered support services, and safeguards from harmful financial practices. Through the Freedom Farm Cooperative, Hamer provided individuals and families with direct services, education, self-help, mutual aid, and advocacy opportunities, helping build long-term stability and pathways to independent living. She also emphasized community leadership as essential to building strong and inclusive communities.

In her honor, AAPD hosts the Fannie Lou Hamer Leadership Program to carry forward her vision of access, opportunity, and community-driven progress.

What is the Fannie Lou Hamer Leadership Program?

The Fannie Lou Hamer Leadership Program is designed for Black disabled advocates aged 18– 59 who are dedicated to advancing social, political, and economic equity at the intersection of the Black and disability communities. Fannie Lou Hamer often worked with young leaders and began her own human rights work at age 44, which is why the program welcomes both emerging and experienced advocates.

How much time does the FLH Program require?

The program includes weekly virtual leadership development and community outreach sessions along with group discussions, independent study, and community-based activities. It is tailored and designed for emerging and established organizers, leaders, and advocates, offering content that ranges from intermediate to expert levels. Participants should expect to spend about 5-10 hours per week on program-related work. Each participant will receive a $1,500 stipend for their participation, $500 technology stipend, as well as up to $3,000 in funding to plan and execute the required capstone in-person community event.

Details About the Application Process