Sheletta Brundidge | |
|---|---|
 Brundidge in a 2022 video promoting theCOVID vaccine forRamsey County, Minnesota | |
| Born | 1972 (age 52–53) |
| Occupation | |
| Education | University of Houston |
| Notable awards |
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| Children | 4 |
| Website | |
| shelettamakesmelaugh | |
Sheletta Brundidge is an Americanchildren's author, anEmmy Award winning comedian, and a local activist.[1] Brundidge has focused on autism in her books, and is an advocate for autistic people and children. She is the author ofBrandon Spots His Sign, which was inspired by her autistic son Brandon drawing inspiration fromLet's Go Brandon signs around his neighborhood.[2]
Brundidge grew up in Texas and earned her B.S. from theUniversity of Houston inradio and television broadcasting.[3] Brundidge is the mother of four children, three of whom are on theautism spectrum. After seekingsupport services from Texas for her children, she was told the waiting list was "at least ten years", prompting her and her family to move out of Texas to Minnesota.[4]
Brundidge published her first book,Cameron Goes to School, in April 2020. She cites her frustration over the lack of children's books focusing on autism in Black children as motivation in creating the book.[5]
In April 2021, Brundidge publishedDaniel Finds His Voice after watching her son, Daniel, respond well tolearning through music.[6]
In April 2022, Brundidge publishedBrandon Spots His Sign after her son, Brandon, became excited over spottingLet's Go Brandon signs.[7] In response to her book, Brandon received a signed letter fromPresident Biden, and also formed a friendship withBrandon Brown, whose name originated the phrase. Brown stated their meeting was a chance to "reclaim a phrase that he feels has gotten too nasty".[2]
Brundidge cites her family's personal experience with autism as the driving force behind her advocacy. Brundidge has worked with Minnesota police to improve police encounters with non-verbal citizens and the NFL in support ofsensory friendly restrooms in football stadiums. She has also collaborated with theMinnesota Department of Health on autism testing for families of color.[8]
Brundidge has advocated for public awareness oncarbon monoxide detectors after losing five family members tocarbon monoxide poisoning in 2020.[9]
Brundidge runs a production company for her podcastSheletta Makes Me Laugh.[1]
Brundidge was named as one ofUSA Today's women of the year in 2022, which recognizes women who have made a significant impact.[10][11]
In 2022, Brundidge was the Anthem Award for Leader of the Year in the Human and Civil Rights category.[12]
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| National | |
