Helen Keller

Author and Advocate, 1880-1968

Helen Keller overcame the challenges of being both deaf and blind to become a writer, activist, and advocate for people with disabilities. Born in 1880 in Alabama, Keller lost her sight and hearing at a young age but learned to communicate through the dedication of her teacher, Anne Sullivan. Their relationship became a profound example of human connection and the transformative power of collaboration. During her speeches in the early 1920s, Keller said, “We live by each other and for each other. Alone, we can do so little. Together, we can do so much.”

Through Sullivan’s guidance and persistence, Keller not only gained language but also discovered her capacity to engage with and influence the world. Their partnership demonstrated that true progress often depends on mutual trust, patience, and the willingness to work together toward a shared goal. 

Justice Innovation Lab encourages partner jurisdictions to work collaboratively with a wide range of actors who are impacted by their decisions to better understand and solve the problems facing their communities.