Promoting an Inclusive NYS Workforce

Building an inclusive and equitable New York State workforce starts with respect, accessibility, and fairness.

The Chief Disability Office (CDO) works to counter all forms of discrimination, like ableism and audism, and to help remove barriers for people with disabilities in the workforce.

Our workforce initiatives including Employment First, State as Model Employer, and Partnership for Inclusive Internships create pathways to meaningful employment for people with disabilities.

Definitions and Workforce Initiatives

The Chief Disability Office is dedicated to creating a fully inclusive and equitable New York State workforce. We achieve this by understanding and addressing discriminatory barriers and promoting respect, fairness, and full accessibility. Here are some things all New Yorkers can do:

    • Commit to removing barriers: identify and work collectively to remove physical, digital and communication barriers that exclude people with disabilities.
    • Understand the challenges: listen to the experiences of people with disabilities as they encounter challenges to full work and community lives.
    • Learn actively: Build understanding of different disabilities and why inclusion matters.
    • Share what you learn: Raise awareness of ableism and its impacts on opportunity and well‑being.
    • Support disability rights organizations: Volunteer, partner, or amplify their work.
    • Speak up: Challenge discriminatory language, behaviors, and policies when you encounter them.
    • Vote accessibly: Back candidates and policies that strengthen disability rights and accessibility.
    • Lead with respect: Treat everyone with dignity.
    • Listen & learn: Center the perspectives of people with disabilities.
    • Challenge assumptions: Question stereotypes and biased expectations.
    • Improve environments: Advocate for accessible buildings, transportation, and public spaces.
    • Make work inclusive: Encourage policies and practices that accommodate employees with disabilities.
    • Leverage assistive tech: Promote tools and technology that support participation and productivity.
    • Avoid ableist terms: Don’t use words or phrases that reinforce stereotypes or negative connotations.
    • Communicate accessibly: Push for accessible formats, communication, and technology in everyday workflows.

Contact

Office of the Chief Disability Officer
Email: [email protected]

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