New York, NY – March 14, 2025 – In a decisive move to champion accessibility and equity in the evolving world of remote work, New York City has unveiled a comprehensive initiative to expand resources for remote workers with disabilities. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to ensuring that the advantages of remote work are accessible to all.
The announcement, delivered by the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD), signals a strategic effort to dismantle the obstacles that disabled professionals encounter in the remote work environment. “We recognize that remote work presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals with disabilities,” stated Commissioner Victor Calise of MOPD. This initiative is designed to provide the necessary tools and support, fostering a truly inclusive workforce.
Key Elements of the Expanded Resources:
- Assistive Technology Grant Program:
- In partnership with organizations like the Center for Inclusive Technology, the city will offer grants to eligible remote workers to acquire essential assistive technologies. This includes software such as JAWS screen-reading software, ergonomic workstations from companies such as Herman Miller, and enhanced communication tools.
- This program aims to alleviate the financial strain associated with specialized equipment, promoting equal access to the digital workplace.
- Digital Accessibility Training and Workshops:
- Collaborating with organizations like DisabilityIN, MOPD will conduct online training sessions focused on digital accessibility best practices. These workshops will cover topics such as:
- Navigating virtual meeting platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams with accessibility features.
- Utilizing screen-reading software and other assistive technologies.
- Developing effective remote communication strategies.
- These sessions will be led by certified accessibility professionals, providing practical skills and knowledge.
- Collaborating with organizations like DisabilityIN, MOPD will conduct online training sessions focused on digital accessibility best practices. These workshops will cover topics such as:
- Virtual Peer Support Network:
- To combat the potential for social isolation, the city has launched a dedicated online platform, “Remote Connect,” for remote workers with disabilities. This platform will facilitate peer support, resource sharing, and community building.
- This online community will host regular virtual meetups and provide a forum for individuals to share their experiences and offer mutual support.
- Employer Accessibility Consulting:
- MOPD will provide consulting services to businesses to assist them in creating accessible remote work policies. This service includes:
- Guidance on implementing reasonable accommodations.
- Recommendations for accessible technology integration.
- Disability awareness training for remote teams.
- MOPD will provide consulting services to businesses to assist them in creating accessible remote work policies. This service includes:
- Centralized Online Resource Hub:
- The NYC.gov web site has now a dedicated section for remote working for people with disabilities. This centralizes all the information, and resources into one easy to use location.
“This initiative is a crucial step towards creating a more equitable workforce,” said Susan Doehler, Executive Director of the Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York (CIDNY). By addressing the specific needs of remote workers with disabilities, the city is fostering greater inclusion and economic opportunity.
The city encourages all remote workers with disabilities to explore these valuable resources. Detailed information is available on the MOPD website at nyc.gov/mopd.
About the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD):
The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities works to ensure the full inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of New York City life. MOPD collaborates with city agencies, community organizations, and individuals to advance disability rights and promote accessibility.
Contact: Nadeem Ahmed, CEO of WorkinVirtual.
