Count Us In: Why Black Voices Matter in Long Beach’s Disability Data & Community Survey
Let’s Talk About What We Don’t Always Name
Let’s talk about something we don’t always talk about.
Disability.
In many Black families, the word disability may not be a word we grew up using. We might’ve heard someone in our family be called “special: or “different.” Or maybe we were told they were “just going through something.” So, we adjust. We adapt. We carry it quietly. But the truth is that disability has always been part of our community.
Chronic illness. Mobility challenges. Learning differences. ADHD. Autism. Anxiety. Depression. Trauma. Undiagnosed or unseen conditions we never had language for.
When we don’t name something, like disability, we may be missing opportunities to more deeply understand, be informed, care more for ourselves and others, and give voice to real life experiences. These experiences matter.
Right now, through the Long Beach Disability Data and Community Survey, we have an opportunity to highlight our lived experiences related to disability, so that our realities can be included in a process for future changes in our community.
What Is the Long Beach Disability Data and Community Survey?
The City of Long Beach, through its Citizens’ Advisory Commission on Disabilities and the Office of Equity, has launched the Disability Data and Community Survey. The survey is open now through May 1, 2026. The purpose is to better understand the real experiences, barriers, and needs of people with disabilities who live, work, study, or spend time in Long Beach. This includes people who are diagnosed and undiagnosed.
The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete. It is confidential. No names or identifying details will be included in the results. The information gathered will inform city policies, programs, and accessibility improvements, especially as Long Beach prepares for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Why This Matters for Black Communities
This matters deeply for Black communities.
Black children are disproportionately disciplined in schools, especially those with disabilities. Black adults with disabilities experience higher rates of poverty and lower access to services. Many Black families navigate mental health challenges without diagnosis or culturally responsive support. Too often, we carry the weight quietly.
At the same time, many of our neighborhoods face infrastructure challenges that make daily life harder. Sidewalks are cracked or inaccessible. Public transportation is inconsistent. Affordable housing does not always accommodate mobility needs. Climate heat impacts elders and those with chronic illness first. Disability does not exist in isolation. It intersects with race, income, housing, and health.
If Black residents do not participate in this survey, our realities will be undercounted. And we know that when our communities are undercounted, we can be forgotten and under-resourced.
Disability Is Not Weakness
Disability is not weakness. It is not laziness. It is not bad behavior. It is not something to hide.
Sometimes disability simply means the environment was not designed with us in mind. When we redesign the environment, everyone benefits.
Curb ramps help parents with strollers. Clear communication supports elders. Mental health resources strengthen families. Accessible public spaces build stronger neighborhoods. Accessibility is equity.
Who Should Participate?
You should consider participating if you have a physical disability, live with chronic illness, experience mobility limitations, have a learning difference, live with anxiety or depression, are neurodivergent, care for someone with a disability, or face daily challenges that affect your full participation in community life. Diagnosed or undiagnosed, your lived experience counts.
Paper versions of the survey and phone assistance are available as well. And, public library computer labs are available if access to technology is a barrier. For assistance, contact [email protected] or call 562-570-6257.
Why Being Counted Matters
Data drives decisions. Decisions shape funding. Funding determines who has access to safe sidewalks, transportation, housing, mental health support, and a more inclusive community experience.
If we are not counted, we are overlooked.
This is a moment to say we are here. We have needs. We deserve access. We deserve dignity.
Take the Disability Data and Community Survey before May 1, 2026. And, if it is not for you, share it with someone who may need to be heard.
Access is not charity. It is justice.
Click here to take the survey in English.
#CountUsInLB
