September 24, 2026
At a time of uncertainty for people with I/DD and the organizations that support them, New York needs leaders willing to speak clearly about what is at stake.
Governor Hochul has done exactly that, and she deserves our thanks.
Recently, she led a coalition of governors urging the federal government to preserve longstanding protections that help ensure people with disabilities can live, receive services and participate fully in their communities. Her message was clear: we cannot turn back decades of progress toward independence, inclusion and community-based care.
For those of us who work alongside people with I/DD and their families, these protections are not abstract principles. They are about whether someone can live, work and thrive in their community, and receive the support they need without fear of being institutionalized.
Here in Western New York, the member agencies of the Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York (DDAWNY) support tens of thousands of people with developmental disabilities. Protecting their ability to live full, meaningful lives must remain a priority.
Governor Hochul and our WNY delegation have made clear that NY will continue to stand behind community-based care, independent living and the rights of people with disabilities.
As President of DDAWNY and a Board Member of New York Disability Advocates, I thank Governor Hochul for using her voice at this critical moment. We look forward to working with her administration to protect the progress our community has fought generations to achieve and strengthen the system that makes community living possible.
Mindy Cervoni
Hamburg