February 14, 2020   NYLPI Director of Disability Justice Ruth Lowenkron spoke today at the Fordham Law School Symposium: “Urban Cities and Accessibility.”  In her panel, “The Impact of Inaccessible Urban Cities,” Ruth discussed the detrimental effect of inaccessible cities on people with disabilities, their family members, other advocates – and in fact all individuals.  She defined “accessibility,” “inclusion,” and “disability community,” then detailed the rights of the disability community to access government services, public accommodations, and education. She focused on access to healthcare, transportation, 911, the court system, public and private housing, and special education. Ruth outlined how people with disabilities in New York City are faring and how New York City can become more accessible. She concluded with the benefits of inclusion for all people with disabilities.

From the Fordham Law School website:

The 2020 Fordham Urban Law Journal Symposium is titled “Urban Cities and Accessibility.” The Symposium will provide a forum to discuss and address how disability and accessibility are considered in the design of cities, both through urban planning and incorporation of technology. With panels addressing the history and future of relevant law, urban planning, the role of smart cities, and the impact of inaccessible urban cities, the Symposium promises to be a diverse conversation on the challenges, possibilities, and future of accessible urban cities.