On October 20, 2021, ICD’s Organizational Co-Lead, Joseph T. McDonald III, testified at the New York State Assembly's historic Public Hearing on Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities.

The committee welcomed various agencies, service providers, advocates, and people with disabilities to share the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on employment within the disability community.

This first-of-its-kind meeting signified an increased level of focus and commitment to a workforce that is inclusive of the talents and assets of individuals with disabilities.

In his statement, Mr. McDonald said,

“There's a growing line of potential workers with disabilities, businesses are clamoring for employees, workforce providers are open for services, but our classrooms are empty. Something must be done...

The disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic offer a once in a lifetime opportunity . . . to reevaluate and rebuild our systems to better support individuals with disabilities and boost overall economic development at the same time.”