To Broadway actress Marilee Talkington will be awarded the 2024 Helen Keller Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Federation of the Blind (AFB).

“She is a recognized actress and activist for the rights of artists with disabilities. The American Federation of the Blind is honoring Talkington for her continued contributions to removing barriers for people with disabilities in the performing arts,” reads a Federation press release.

Awards from the Federation have previously been presented to singers and musicians Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles.

AFB will honor Marilee Talkington at a ceremony in April in Los Angeles.

“During her twenty-five year career in the performing arts, Marilee has broken down the misconceptions that are too often held about people with disabilities,” said AFB President Eric Bridges. “Taking on more than 100 roles, her success on stage and screen has bridged the inclusion gap for artists with disabilities.”