Project goal is to sign up 5,000 people with disabilities!

The Center for Disability Rights (CDR) is excited to announce the launch of the website for the New York Disability Vote Network (NYDVN), accessed at www.nydvn.org. The ultimate goal of the 2-year project is to build, solidify, and unify a disability voting bloc in the state of New York.

The NYDVN project is made possible with a grant from Adult Career and Continuing Education Services – Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR). It was established in spring 2013 to implement and grow a database of at least 5,000 voters with disabilities residing in New York, as well as establish a coalition committed to NYDVN’s mission. Current partners include over 25 organizations, namely independent living centers, advocacy groups, and other disability-specific associations.

“People with disabilities have to fight for their civil rights every day. Now New York will have a coordinated effort to ensure that the same people are also fighting for their rights in the voting booth as well,” said Bruce Darling, CEO of CDR.

A database of voters with disabilities will be the first of its kind in New York State, and will serve as a vehicle for promoting a disability-friendly nonpartisan agenda. The NYDVN project is a unique collaborative effort to provide a political voice to an often overlooked population. Current areas of focus include health care, housing, transportation, and employment.

“I am grateful to live in a country where voting is recognized as a right. That’s why I exercise my right to vote every election. I think this project is important because it will allow elected officials to easily see how many people are affected by issues concerning disabilities,” said Kenyatta Dacosta, a community member.

Voting age individuals with disabilities and other interested parties are encouraged to join the network by filling out an online form that can be found on the website. Volunteers are also welcome. For more information, please contact Jessica Thurber, Voter Rights Coordinator at CDR, at jthurber@cdrnys.org.

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ABOUT CENTER FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS

The Center for Disability Rights, Inc. (CDR) is a non-profit service and advocacy organization devoted to the full integration, independence, and civil rights of people of all ages with all types of disabilities. With services in 11 counties in New York State and offices in Rochester, Corning, Geneva and Albany, CDR represents the concerns of thousands of people with disabilities.