July is Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate inclusivity and highlight the incredible contributions of the disabled community. If you’re looking for an accessible and enjoyable way to explore New York City, look no further than the NYC Ferry. Not only does the NYC Ferry offer a discount program for persons with disabilities, making it an affordable option, but it also ensures accessibility for all passengers, with features like ramps, priority seating, and accessible restrooms.
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on inclusive places, valuable resources, and inspiring advocates. We’ll also introduce you to several disabled-led and disability-owned business enterprises (DOBEs) that are making waves in NYC and beyond. Hop on board as we navigate the best spots to visit, learn about the resources available, and celebrate the advocates and businesses that are leading the way in creating a more inclusive city.
Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library
This NYPL branch is a treasure trove for those with visual impairments, offering a wide range of accessible reading materials.
Gigi’s Playhouse
Gigi’s Playhouse is all about empowering individuals with Down syndrome through free educational and career development programs.
View this post on Instagram
Women on Wheels
Women on Wheels (WOW) is a unique sisterhood of women living with spinal cord injuries and paralysis who provide support to one another in a variety of ways. Through weekly meetings, they aim to educate and empower women with spinal cord injuries and paralysis as well as provide education, support and resources to their loved ones.
Sign Language Center
Dive into the world of ASL with the Sign Language Center, where you can learn and connect with the deaf community through classes and workshops.
InTandem
InTandem provides free tandem cycling programs to people who are blind, have low vision, or cannot ride independently due to other disabilities
View this post on Instagram
Adaptability Bike
Adaptability Bike designs custom bikes for those with physical disabilities, making mobility and independence a breeze.
Keen New York
KEEN New York offers free recreational activities for kids and young adults with disabilities, fostering self-esteem and community.
Open Doors NYC
Open Doors invests in the creativity and leadership of black and brown wheelchair users and inspires action for safer more just communities.
Invictus Bakery
Invictus Bakery employs and empowers bakers of abilities. With a mission to ensure every person who comes to Invictus is supported and enabled to reach their full potential.
Contento
Contento is a restaurant that champions inclusivity, creating a warm and welcoming dining experience for everyone. With deep ties within the disability community in Harlem and beyond, Contento is dedicated to using its resources and space as an example of what can be done with small modifications.
Meat & Bread NYC
Indulge in freshly made sandwiches at Meat & Bread NYC, where owner Bari, who is blind, ensures an inclusive experience. The staff is trained to assist customers of all abilities, and the restaurant features wheelchair accessibility, accessible bathrooms, outdoor seating, and digital menus for those with visual impairments.
View this post on Instagram
Cafe Joyeux
Cafe Joyeux serves up joy with every cup, employing individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities for a truly inclusive café experience.
Sooch Tools
Sooch Tools offers handy tools designed to make daily tasks easier for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
Two Blind Brothers
Founded by two visually impaired brothers living in NYC, this clothing company donates all its profits to blindness research. Shop with purpose!
View this post on Instagram
Alivia
Alivia collaborates with artists with developmental disabilities to create stunning, unique clothing that tells a story.
Glam Canes
Glam Canes transforms mobility aids into stylish accessories, proving that function and fashion can go hand in hand.
Izzy Wheels
Izzy Wheels adds a splash of personality to wheelchairs with their customizable wheel covers, making mobility both stylish and fun.
View this post on Instagram
Equability
Equability is all about making fashion accessible, offering stylish solutions for individuals with disabilities.
Ivoree Beauty
Ivoree Beauty, founded by NYC beauty expert and influencer J. Renée, launched in 2020 to help women with Albinism learn makeup and beauty tips.
View this post on Instagram
Rana
Meet Rana, an artist whose vibrant and unique artwork inspired by her disabilities aims to connect people through visual stories.
Seeing Eye Dog
Seeing Eye Dog trains guide dogs to help visually impaired individuals navigate the world with greater independence and confidence.
Sooch Tools
Grab one of the World’s First Customizable Disability Tool Sets. Many “sticks” on the market offer only one attachment, one size and one angle. The Sooch Tools allows you to buy one stick and buy any attachment you want at any time.