Hohenstein hosts annual Disability Summit
Showcases resources and seminars about the work being done to assist disability community
Rep. Joseph C. Hohenstein October 9, 2026 | 3:29 PM
HARRISBURG, Oct. 9 – State Rep. Joe Hohenstein, D-Phila., hosted his annual Disability Summit on Wednesday and Thursday, which showcased seminars about resources and work being done to assist the disability community.
Hohenstein said this annual event he has hosted since 2020 always brings a strong lineup of disability rights advocates, elected officials, state department heads, and more people to discuss all things related to the disability community.
“Understanding the experiences of individuals with disabilities is a critical step to ensuring that our communities create equal opportunities to success for these individuals while also ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations they need,” Hohenstein said. “I greatly appreciate everyone who had a hand in making this year’s event another huge success, and for working to provide a better Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and America for our disability neighbors.”
Thursday’s sessions included multiple tracks that focused on specific areas, including employer, health, family, self-advocate, education, info and services, and housing.
Some of the groups that were represented included Special Olympics Pennsylvania and Cities of Inclusion.
Nate Garland, interim president & CEO of Special Olympics Pennsylvania, discussed the work they’re doing to help individuals with disabilities through sports.
“Special Olympics Pennsylvania is proud to once again help lead this important summit,” Garland said. “Through sports and year-round programming, we work to advance inclusion for people of all abilities. That work reaches far beyond the playing field, and it depends on meaningful relationships and partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to building communities where everyone belongs. The Disability Summit brings those voices together, and this year’s gathering carries special significance as we reflect on our nation’s history and look ahead to a more inclusive future for all.”
Matthew Forrest, project manager for Cities of Inclusion, said, “Cities of Inclusion speaks to the collective power of the disability community and a true force to create change in our city and region that this community represents. As a true community effort, this summit reflects the collaboration of over 70 community organizations coming together to create a space where collective action can be built towards a city and region that is truly accessible and inclusive for all our neighbors. Cities of Inclusion represents the best of our city and provides a blueprint for a more hopeful and brighter future.”
Wednesday’s portion included a partnership with Empathy Tech for an innovation challenge where students got to present their work. Also, Disability Equality in Education unveiled a new tile for their disability history timeline dedicated to Hohenstein’s legislation for Disability Inclusive Curriculum.
Hohenstein said he looks forward to continuing to support legislative initiatives on behalf of Pennsylvanians with disabilities and to next year’s event.