FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 26, 2026

New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities Celebrates Disability Pride Month and the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

With more than 1 million New Yorkers with disabilities across all 5 boroughs Mamdani administration works to advance equity, accessibility, and inclusion of people with disabilities.

NEW YORK – The New York City Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) celebrates July as Disability Pride Month and marks the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  With more than 1 million New Yorkers with disabilities across all five boroughs, MOPD strives to increase accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of life such as housing, education, employment, transportation, health care, sports, arts, and culture. The Mamdani Administration is committed to making our city more livable for every day New Yorkers including those with disabilities.

“Disability Pride Month celebrates the historic movement that organized and delivered progress for people with disabilities,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Protecting and building on that progress is central to making our city more accessible and inclusive to all.  From expanding special education programs to making our transit system more accessible, our administration is committed to building a city where every New Yorker can enjoy and thrive.”

“Disability Pride Month is an opportunity to reflect on the countless contributions individuals made to make our city and our society more inclusive and reaffirm our commitment to advancing this important work, said First Deputy Mayor Dean Fuleihan. There is no one better to lead this work for the Mamdani administration than Commissioner Agarwal. In less than six months, Commissioner Agarwal has worked across government to break down barriers and ensure we deliver for New Yorkers with disabilities – and she is just getting started.”

“During Disability Pride Month, we reflect on the contributions of so many New Yorkers who built a more inclusive, livable and dignified city for everyone,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Dr. Helen Arteaga. “I am so proud to work alongside Commissioner Nisha Agarwal and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, and I look forward to partnering with them and continuing to deliver for New Yorkers with disabilities.”

“Today we honor the relentless advocacy of the Disability Rights movement that made the passage of the ADA possible,” said Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities Commissioner Nisha Agarwal. “The ADA fundamentally changed American life for the better. This is a result of the tenacity, creativity, and devotion of a diverse coalition of people with disabilities, in solidarity with racial, gender, LGBTQ+ justice advocates. People with disabilities make our city and country better. I’m privileged to build on this legacy, in close partnership with the disability community, with the support of Mayor Mamdani.”

The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law in July 1990 and prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities on a full gamut of public life including transportation, education, employment, and public spaces. The law was fought for and won by disability advocates who, like the civil rights movement before, did sit-ins and protests – the iconic Capitol Crawl – and, ultimately, prevailed.

MOPD is honored to build on this legacy and carry this work forward today on behalf of the Mamdani Administration.

Accomplishments include:

• Transportation: This month, the Mayor and the Governor recently announced a historic plan to build the next generation of bus services which includes accessible upgrades and services and will embed MOPD and the disability community to co-design bus stop planning through focus groups, site visits, and early engagement with disability organizations, ensuring improvements are shaped by lived experience.
• Education: Also, this month, the Mayor and the Chancellor for NYC Public Schools announced a $67.5 million investment to expand preschool classes with children with disabilities so these kids receive high-quality teaching in their own communities.  
• Employment: MOPD’s NYC: ATWORK program, which recruits and connects New Yorkers with disabilities to jobs in both the public and private sectors, joined other cities in Washington, DC at the League of Cities Conference to share best practices, learning from one another, and next steps to advance this field with other NYC partners.
• Public Engagement: Working with and for the communities is essential for this Administration, and MOPD and the disability communities had the first-ever DeafBlind Town Hall where we heard from the communities what are the problems that they see and, more importantly, the solutions that we could do together.

Kim Ridley, New York State Chief Disability Officer said, "Disability Pride Month is both a celebration of our vibrant community and a reminder of the continuous work required to fulfill the promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The progress showcased by MOPD today, spanning accessible transit, inclusive emergency response, and workforce development, proves what is possible when government actively listens to its constituents with disabilities. I extend my warmest congratulations to Mayor Mamdani, Commissioner Agarwal, and the entire MOPD team for their dedicated leadership. New York State remains deeply committed to partnering with local leaders to ensure accessibility is woven into the fabric of every community."

“As we recognize Disability Pride Month and the anniversary of the ADA, we know that the transportation ecosystem should meet the needs of all New Yorkers. At TLC, we are proud that accessibility is a key pillar of our mission and all passengers deserve dignified and safe transportation,” said NYC Taxi and Limousine Commissioner and Chair Midori Valdivia. “We have the most accessible for-hire fleet in the nation, but we know our job is never done, and we will continue to work to increase access and serve people with disabilities.”

"An accessible transportation system makes New York City better for everyone. It means people with disabilities, older adults, families with strollers, and all New Yorkers can get where they need to go and enjoy all our city has to offer," said New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn. "As we celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we're proud of the progress we've made. From accessible bus stops and pedestrian signals to more places to sit and rest, we're making our streets safer, more welcoming, and easier to navigate every day. While we've come a long way, we recognize there's still more work to be done. NYC DOT is committed to upgrading our streets so New Yorkers can get where they're going, and rest when they need, without worry."

"Commissioner Agarwal understands that accessible public transportation is fundamental to building a city that works for everyone. From day one, the Commissioner has prioritized improving disability access in our transit system and putting New Yorkers’ mobility needs front and center. I am proud to partner with the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities to advance a more equitable, accessible, and reliable bus network, and am grateful to work with the Commissioner so that every New Yorker can travel with independence, dignity, and confidence," said Elizabeth Adams, Senior Advisor for Fast and Free Buses.

"During Disability Pride Month, and throughout the year, we celebrate the resilience, leadership, and contributions of people with disabilities across New York City and reaffirm our commitment to building a more accessible and inclusive future," said NYC Public Schools Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels. "Together with the Commissioner and our Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning led by Deputy Chancellor Christina Foti, we will continue investing in accessible schools, empowering educators with the tools they need, and partnering with our families to ensure every young person has the support, opportunities, and sense of belonging they deserve.”

“Here in New York, access to transportation is access to independence," said MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo. "This is why our collaboration with the City of New York and the city officials who help manage and run the city is so important. Long gone are the days in which the disability community says, ‘Nothing about us, without us.’ Today, it is simply ‘Nothing without us.’ Every issue is an access issue and it takes all of us in government both at the city, and state, to ensure we leave no one behind and that we provide access so that all New Yorkers have an equal opportunity to a life of joy and success as they define it for themselves. Every New Yorker deserves that dignity and agency.”

“Many of the freedoms we enjoy today were secured through the sacrifices of veterans who continue to live with the lasting impacts of their service, whether that be visible or invisible, said Commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services Yesenia Mata. During Disability Pride Month, we honor not only their sacrifice, but their resilience. Our responsibility extends beyond saying 'thank you for your service'—it is ensuring that every veteran has equitable access to the opportunities, resources, and support they have earned. Their disabilities do not define them; their courage, leadership, and continued service to their communities do."

“As we recognize Disability Pride Month and the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to the information, resources, and support they need to stay safe,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Christina Farrell. “We are proud to work alongside MOPD to strengthen accessibility and make sure that emergency preparedness efforts reflect the needs of all residents. A more resilient New York City is one where every New Yorker has the ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies.”

“As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, we continue to strive to uphold the legacy of this movement by working to ensure that every DSS program is both accessible to people with disabilities and delivering effective and inclusive services,” said DSS Commissioner Erin Dalton. “Building and running shelters, services, and systems that understand and accommodate the needs of people with disabilities makes these services better for every New Yorker that relies on them.”

"At DCAS, we are committed to making city jobs accessible to everyone and building a city workforce that reflects all New Yorkers," said DCAS Commissioner Yume Kitasei. "We are excited to celebrate Disability Pride Month alongside MOPD and join in on recognizing the achievements and contributions of the disability community."

"Our city is healthier when we are meeting the needs of all New Yorkers and center the expertise from our neighbors with disabilities," said NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin. "The New York City Health Department is proud to foster an inclusive and accessible city through ongoing improvements to street vendor reforms for people with disabilities, supporting the youngest New Yorkers through Early Intervention and collaboration with community partners who are on the ground every day. I look forward to continuing this work with our partners to ensure everyone has the tools they need to succeed."

"We are proud to provide compassionate care for all New Yorkers without exception," said Dr. Ivelesse Mendez-Justiniano, Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals. “As the largest municipal public health care delivery system in the nation, embedding accessibility and disability inclusion into our daily practices remains a top priority."

"Thirty-six years after the ADA first became law, New York City is honoring its legacy by actively breaking down the barriers that keep people with disabilities out of the workforce," said NYC Office of Talent and Workforce Development Executive Director Doug Lipari. "Through close partnerships with employers, non-profits, and agencies like MOPD, we are connecting talented New Yorkers with disabilities to good careers and building a more equitable and inclusive economy where everyone has the chance to thrive."

“As we celebrate the thirty-sixth anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Disability Pride Month, we are reminded that opportunity must belong to every New Yorker. Accessibility is essential to building a city where everyone can participate in our economy and share in its success,” said NYCEDC Interim President & CEO Jeanny Pak. “In partnership with MOPD, NYCEDC is advancing this work across the five boroughs. From transportation to universal design principles, to supporting programs that provide pathways to good paying jobs, we are building a city where every New Yorker, including New Yorkers with disabilities, have the opportunity to contribute, benefit from our shared prosperity and help shape our future.” 

"The NYC Administration for Children’s Services’ commitment to ensuring all children can grow up in a supportive and safe environment, and parents and caretakers are supported, requires a diverse and inclusive team. As we celebrate Disability Pride Month and the 36th anniversary of the ADA, I want to thank the many people with disabilities within ACS and our provider workforce who are vital to accomplishing our overall mission. I also want to especially recognize those committed to enhancing access and services for children and families with disabilities, including our Developmental Disabilities Unit, our ADA Coordinator, and our Support Line, which can provide support services, early intervention, and more. Thank you to the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) for making sure New York City sets an example of what can be accomplished when everyone is included," said ACS Commissioner Rebecca Jones Gaston.

“The Office of Chief Medical Examiner serves New Yorkers during their moments of most profound need, and the success of our mission at the intersection of public health and safety depends on accessibility and inclusion for the diverse communities touched by our work,” said Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Jason Graham. “We are proud to join our colleagues at MOPD and across the city in celebrating this special month as we look forward to building a future together grounded in respect, support, and empowerment for all.”

“While our commitment to underserved and underrepresented communities extends throughout the year, Disability Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder that aging and disability are deeply interconnected experiences shared across every community in New York City,” said NYC Aging Commissioner Dr. Lisa Scott-McKenzie. “No one should be defined by a diagnosis, age, or ability. NYC Aging is proud to work alongside the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and our community partners to ensure older adults with disabilities can age safely, independently, and with the dignity and support they deserve.”

“The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) established a foundation for equality, but its true impact is reflected in the leadership, advocacy, and resilience of people with disabilities who continue to strengthen our communities every day. As we celebrate the ADA’s 36th Anniversary, we recognize the progress made while recommitting ourselves to the work that remains. People with disabilities are the largest and most diverse minority community in our nation, representing every race, ethnicity, age, culture, and neighborhood. The voices and lived experiences of people with disabilities must continue to shape the policies and decisions that impact our communities. Harlem Independent Living Center (HILC) is proud to strengthen the Independent Living Movement by supporting people with disabilities in living independently, exercising choice, and participating fully in community life. We look forward to continuing our work with the City of New York and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities to build a city where accessibility, inclusion, and equity are shared values,” said Yaw Appiadu, Executive Director, Harlem Independent Living Center.

"As disability rights come under attack in Washington, we appreciate MOPD Commissioner Agarwal's leadership and energy in her work to protect and advance our rights in New York City. At the same time, we all know there is so much more to do here, from building more accessible, affordable housing to making sure every public facility is welcoming to people with disabilities. We pledge to continue to work with the administration to further those goals and many more,” said Joe Rappaport, Executive Director of the Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled.

“The Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY) is happy to celebrate disability pride month in New York City with all stakeholders! As an organization established in 1978 to promote disability rights, access, and inclusion in New York City, it is imperative to acknowledge the history, accomplishments, and struggles that the disabled community continues to face while living in New York City. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), people with disabilities comprise approximately 25% of the United States’ population. Access to employment, education, transportation, housing, physical healthcare, mental healthcare, voting, recreational and cultural activities can be challenging with a myriad of systemic and attitudinal barriers. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 allowed for this legislation to be used when fighting for equal access to these essential resources needed for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all disabled individuals living in New York City. This is why we celebrate this seminal piece of legislation,” said Sharon McLennon Wier, Ph.D., MSEd., CRC, LMHC, Executive Director of CIDNY.

"As we celebrate Disability Pride Month and the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we recognize the progress that has been made while reaffirming our commitment to advancing equity, accessibility, and inclusion for people with disabilities. At the Staten Island Center for Independent Living, we are proud to work in close partnership with the New York City Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities and Commissioner Nisha Agarwal to ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are represented and that our communities become more accessible for everyone. Together, we continue to advocate for equal opportunity, independent living, and the full participation of people with disabilities in every aspect of community life,” said Carla Brodsky, Interim Executive Director, Staten Island Center for Independent Living.

"Historically, DeafBlind individuals were marginalized even compared to other disability populations. As we mark the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we are more hopeful because the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities recently collaborated with DeafBlind leaders to host the first-ever DeafBlind Town Hall and is discussing ways to partner with our community on legislation and economic opportunities," said Marc Safman.

“Barrier Free Living (BFL) proudly celebrated the official ribbon cutting of Freedom Village, BFL's supportive housing program for domestic violence survivors and seniors with disabilities,” said Cynthia Amodeo, Chief Executive Officer of Barrier Free Living. “We thank the many partners whose collaboration, dedication, and support helped bring Freedom Village to life!”

"The ADA opened doors. Our shared responsibility now is to make sure people can walk through them—not just in law, but in everyday life. Our work at VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired isn't about helping people live with vision loss. It's about making sure vision loss never defines what's possible.  Commissioner Nisha Agarwal has brought tremendous energy and thoughtfulness to advancing accessibility across New York City. We are grateful for her partnership and her recognition that accessibility isn't simply about compliance—it's about opportunity, dignity, and ensuring every New Yorker can fully participate in the life of our city,” said Molly Eagan, CEO, VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

"Celebrating Disability Pride Month and the anniversary of the ADA is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and the vital work that lies ahead. At the Metropolitan Asian Deaf Association (MADA), we are dedicated to ensuring that Deaf, DeafBlind, and hard-of-hearing New Yorkers—spanning all backgrounds, ages, and boroughs—have equal access, resources, and representation. True accessibility means creating a city where every individual in our diverse community can thrive, as we continue to fight to break down the barriers,” Clement So, Executive Director of MADA.

“As we commemorate Disability Pride Month, we urge the City to embrace accountability: every New Yorker deserves equal access to transportation, housing, employment, public services, and civic life,” said Christopher Schuyler, Managing Attorney, Disability Justice Program at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest. “We look forward to working with the City to ensure that the nearly one million New Yorkers with disabilities enjoy the same opportunities as those without disabilities. To achieve that, accessibility must be embedded in every policy decision, and disability rights must be treated as a core City priority — not an afterthought. As a world-class city, New York must set the standard for accessibility and inclusiveness for all others to follow.”

“As we celebrate yet another anniversary of our civil rights legislation we are constantly reminded of all the work we all still have to do.  Bronx Independent Living Services (BILS) wants to thank Commissioner Agarwal for her outstanding leadership of MOPD and look forward to working with her and everyone in the new administration on moving forward the rights of people with disabilities.  At BILS we believe in equality for all and will strive everyday on making sure we are all able to enjoy what this great city has to offer all of us, said,” Brett Eisenberg, Executive Director of the Bronx Independent Living Services.

About MOPD

For half a century, MOPD has been the liaison between New York City government and the disability community. In partnership with City offices and agencies, MOPD ensures City initiatives, programs, and policies address the needs and interests of people with disabilities. The office regularly engages in advocacy and policymaking at the local, state, national, and international levels to make certain accessibility and full inclusion are key priorities for all public and private stakeholders alike.  To learn more, visit: nyc.gov/mopd.