New York State landmarks will be illuminated in purple tonight to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD), according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The event is intended to raise awareness and promote inclusion for people with disabilities.
Governor Hochul stated, “On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we reaffirm a simple truth: every New Yorker deserves the opportunity to live, work and thrive with dignity. Our communities grow stronger when we break down barriers, expand access and champion the full participation of people with disabilities. Today and every day, we commit to building a New York where inclusion isn’t an aspiration—it’s our obligation.”
The United Nations established IDPWD in 1992 to highlight disability issues worldwide. Currently, about 1.3 billion people globally—16 percent of the population—have significant disabilities. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that over one in four adults in the United States live with a disability. Among younger adults aged 18-44 with disabilities, one quarter lack a regular healthcare provider or have unmet healthcare needs due to cost. For those aged 45-64, one in six did not have a routine check-up in the past year, while older adults often require more support due to various challenges.
In New York, labor force participation among people with disabilities has increased from 24.2 percent in 2019 to 28.8 percent in 2024, according to a report by the Office of the State Comptroller using American Community Survey data. Despite this improvement, challenges remain regarding employment and economic outcomes for individuals with disabilities.
To address these issues, Governor Hochul created the Office of the Chief Disability Officer (CDO) in 2022—the first such office nationwide—to advocate for people with disabilities and coordinate services across state agencies.
New York State Chief Disability Officer Kim Hill Ridley commented on today’s initiative: “On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we proudly light New York State buildings in purple — the global color of disability pride — as a powerful symbol of our unwavering commitment to accessibility, equity, and inclusion for every New Yorker with a disability. Today and every day, we celebrate the strength, contributions, and leadership of our disability community and reaffirm that New York will continue to break down barriers and build a state where everyone belongs.”
Willow Baer, Commissioner of the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), said: “Self-advocates are breaking down barriers every day to dictate how they want to live their lives and my office is proud to support these efforts from employment services, to safeguarding rights in the Office of Advocacy, to advances in technology that encourage independence and dignity. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, OPWDD celebrates the humanity, talents, and strengths of people with developmental disabilities and joins Governor Hochul in expecting full inclusion in our communities and workplaces.”
Over the past year under Governor Hochul’s leadership, several initiatives have been launched:
– The Employment First NY team was created to prioritize competitive employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
– Partnerships were formed between state agencies and SUNY Albany’s Massry School of Business to develop workplace solutions using emerging technologies.
– A statewide multimedia campaign called “You Belong Here” was launched promoting hiring practices inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
– The inaugural Neurodivergence Strength Flag was raised at Letchworth State Park.
– The 50th anniversary of the Willowbrook Consent Decree was celebrated at its historic site on Staten Island.
– An ADA Pride event marked the anniversary of federal civil rights legislation for disabled Americans.
– The Partnership for Inclusive Internships program expanded placements for interns with disabilities within state agencies.
– Eligibility under supportive housing programs was broadened for persons at risk due to physical disabilities.
– Accessibility-related updates were made within home repair programs supporting veterans and others.
– Observances were held recognizing National ASL Day and International Sign Language Day.
– Over 700 participants attended October’s Disability Rights & Employment Awareness Month events featuring workshops and career fairs focused on inclusion.
– More than $15 million was invested into accessibility improvements at several state parks across New York.
Landmarks being illuminated include One World Trade Center (1WTC), Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Kosciuszko Bridge, Empire State Plaza, Niagara Falls, Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct among others.