Exhibition on View Through October 31

Additional Information Available Here

NYS Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy today announced the opening of the new Disability Rights Employment Awareness Month, or DREAM, exhibit featuring the national theme, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” at the Governor’s Reception Room in the New York State Capitol.

“Every year, we dedicate time during Disability Rights and Employment Awareness Month to reflect on what has been achieved and how we must continue working to create a more inclusive workforce in our state,” Commissioner Moy said. “OGS invites the public to stop by the Capitol to visit this informative exhibit showcasing New York State’s progress in ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to high-quality career opportunities."

This year’s theme for the exhibit, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” coincides with National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). The exhibit underscores New York State’s commitment to expanding the number and quality of employment opportunities for people with disabilities and Governor Hochul’s focus on safeguarding their rights to live and move independently in their communities.

Congress established National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week during the first week of October through Public Law 176; however, in 1962, the term “physically” was removed to recognize the employment needs of individuals with all types of disabilities. Around 25 years after that, Congress expanded the observance to an entire month and renamed it “National Disability Employment Awareness Month” (NDEAM).

This exhibit highlights legislation, individuals, and groups that gave rise to moments in New York’s history that changed the lives of people with disabilities and continue to advocate for an inclusive and diverse workforce free from discrimination. Initiatives on display include the American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today (ADAPT), the New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB), Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR), and the National Employment First Commission.

The free Disability Rights Employment Awareness Month exhibit will be on view in the Governor’s Reception Room on the New York State Capitol’s second floor until October 31.

The Capitol is open to the public from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. The exhibit space will not be open to the public on Monday, October 14. For additional information, visit the exhibit’s webpage.