The Beginning: Blind Tom Wiggins (1849)

Thomas "Blind Tom" Wiggins was one of the earliest known blind Black musical prodigies. Born into slavery in Georgia in 1849, he became a gifted pianist and composer who toured nationally and earned large audiences. His performances generated nearly $100,000 per year in the 1800s.

Despite his success, Blind Tom remained enslaved and controlled. He did not own his earnings or his career. His talent made others wealthy, but it did not bring him freedom.

Music as Survival: Early 1900s

After slavery, many blind Black musicians faced racism, poverty, and limited job opportunities. To gain work and recognition, many used "Blind" in their stage names, including Blind Lemon Jefferson and Blind Willie Johnson.

This was not a weakness. It was a survival strategy. For many artists, music became their main source of income and a means of independence and pride.

The Harmful Myth

Over time, a stereotype developed that blind people were "naturally" gifted at music. This myth ignored years of practice and reduced artists to their disability. It encouraged pity instead of respect and often benefited the entertainment industry more than the musicians.

Breaking the Mold: Ray Charles

Ray Charles rejected this stereotype. He refused to use "Blind" in his name and chose to be known simply as Ray Charles. He emphasized that he was a singer first, not defined by disability. This choice reflected agency and the right to control one's identity.

Modern Voices: Changing the Narrative

Today, artists such as Stevie Wonder, Lachi, Precious Perez, and many more are reshaping how disability is represented in music. They highlight creativity, leadership, and cultural pride while challenging one dimensional portrayals. Their work centers on real experiences rather than stereotypes.

Why This History Matters

About 26 percent of Americans have a disability, yet many spaces remain inaccessible. Approximately 1 in 4 (25%) of Black adults in the United States have a disability, representing one of the highest prevalence rates among racial and ethnic groups. Disabled Black stories have often been told by outsiders and shaped by bias. An inclusive future requires disabled people to lead, create, name, and share their own stories authentically and with respect.

• PBS Origins: The Untold Origins of the Black & Blind Musician
• Black, Blind and Brilliant: 10 Musicians Who Overcame the Odds
• Renegades: Thomas Wiggins - Watch the documentary now | American Masters | PBS
• Infographic: Adults with Disabilities: Ethnicity and Race
• Five Things to Know About Ray Charles | Smithsonian Music.

The selected candidates will visit Salk and be provided with opportunities to:

• Present their novel research in a symposium setting and interact with other trainees and colleagues who are at the forefront of their respective fields.
• Engage with and meet Salk faculty one-on-one and facilitate mentor-mentee pairing opportunities.
• Learn about the Institute, expose them to the ongoing developments at Salk, and inform them of upcoming recruitment opportunities.

LEARN MORE AND APPLY  Application deadline: March 1

This program focuses on training students in cutting-edge laboratory techniques, while also offering workshops on soft skills, including grant writing, networking, and scientific communication. Participants engage directly with Salk faculty and labs, helping build valuable future postdoctoral connections. The dates for the program are August 17-28, 2026. 

LEARN MORE AND APPLY Application deadline: February 17

Travel costs and lodging accommodations associated with attending either program will be covered by the Salk Institute.

For more information visit our Summer Fellowships webpage or contact CS3's Director, Dr. Eric Stokan:  estokan@umbc.edu

Funds for this fellowship are provided by the Center for Social Science Scholarship and the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS).