Senator Carlucci & Supervisor Gromack Host Ceremonial Unveiling of New Accessibility Icon Signs

Senator David Carlucci (D – Rockland/Westchester), in partnership with Clarkstown Town Supervisor Alex Gromack and disability advocates, hosted a Ceremonial Unveiling of the new Accessibility Icon Signs, in celebration of the 25^th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In 2014, Senator Carlucci’s passed legislation to modernize the Universal Accessibility Icon throughout New York State. The law eliminates the word ‘handicapped,’ and changes the icon symbol to represent a person seated in a wheelchair while appearing to be in motion. It discontinues the use of offensive and outdated “handicapped” signs throughout the state, and replaces them with the revamped “accessible” signs approved by disability advocates worldwide.

“New York is the first state in the nation to adopt this change,” said Senator David Carlucci said. “This ceremonial unveiling is a great way to come together as a community and celebrate the 25^th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I am proud that we are again leading the way in disability advocacy and policy, and working together we will continue to be a shining example for disability rights throughout the country.”

"I am proud to join Senator David Carlucci in celebrating this milestone anniversary, in which we celebrate the success of the Americans with Disabilities Act over the last 25 years,” said Clarktown Town Supervisor Alex Gromack. “Thanks to the ADA, people with disabilities have better access to businesses, buildings, government services, and increased opportunities for employment.  In addition, New York State's new Accessibility Icon updates and destigmatizes the logo.  The Town of Clarkstown will replace the old accessibility logos over time as ​needed."

“There has always been a concern that the existing signage and language emphasizes the disability itself, rather than being person-centered,” said Jill A. Warner, CEO of Jawonio. The new more active image portrays more of us moving forward together as a society and that is what we need more of. Jawonio commends Senator Carlucci and the legislature and Governor Cuomo for this progressive, meaningful legislation throughout NYS and the country.”