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Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget included $1 million for Special Olympics New York. WBFO’s Disability Reporter Emyle Watkins first reported in December that the organization was asking the state for at least $1.5 million in the next budget to prevent program cuts. Watkins spoke with their CEO after the budget was released to get her reaction.
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One hundred years after a league we all know, the National Football League, was founded, another league launched with the hope of expanding access to football. WBFO’s Emyle Watkins shares how this new sport held a national tournament in New York State for the first time ever this October.
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People with disabilities’ rights were established through a series of laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. But just because a right is made law, doesn’t mean people in marginalized communities don’t continue to face barriers. WBFO’s Emyle Watkins explains how a local organization is focused on knocking down barriers for disabled people.
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Arts & CultureWBFO’s Disability Reporter Emyle Watkins spoke with Brown on Monday about the message of her book, representation in publishing, and her advice for future authors.
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Every year on July 26th, the disability community in the United States celebrates a major milestone towards rights and acceptance, while also taking a look at the work that still needs to be done. WBFO’s Emyle Watkins has more on this special anniversary and the celebration of Disability Pride.
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The CDC estimates that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men are abused by an intimate partner, annually. The numbers of individuals with disabilities are disproportionately higher than those without, however, they often go unreported or underserved due to ableism and a lack of accessible resources. However, two local non-profits are combatting this through a unique partnership.
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In February, a local disability rights activist brought thousands of names and hundreds of stories to the desk of Governor Kathy Hochul. All in hopes that the new administration will hear the stories of people with disabilities impacted by a workforce crisis that threatens their quality of life. WBFO’s Emyle Watkins has the exclusive.
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In its 2021 report, the Home Care Association of New York State reported that an average of 23% of home health and personal care aide positions are unfilled. As the New York State Senate and Assembly look at legislation that could increase wages significantly, WBFO’s Disability Reporter Emyle Watkins spoke with a local business owner and mother who says the shortage of home health aides has left her relying on friends and sleeping in her wheelchair.
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Playgrounds should be a space where everyone can have fun without barriers. But many playgrounds have been built without accessible features for children with disabilities. WBFO’s Emyle Watkins toured a local elementary school that just made changes to make their playground more inclusive.
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While additional funding for home-based services was excluded from the first two coronavirus relief bills, people with disabilities and their families…