EXHIBITIONs
We are honored to unveil the first exhibition curated for the Museum of Disability History as it opens its doors at its new home – The Viscardi Center. Upon entering, visitors are quickly greeted by the story of Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr., and his influential role in disability history. Thought provoking and interactive exhibits chronicle the disability rights movement and celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities from the U.S. and international disability communities.
OUR COLLECTION
The Office of Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr.
Positioned in its original location within the building and set up as occupied by Dr. Viscardi, the office gives visitors a peek into his journey from a disabled young man to a trailblazing entrepreneur and one of the world’s leading advocates for people with disabilities. It documents his life-long work: breaking new ground with the launch of a business staffed primarily by people and veterans with disabilities; decades of advising U.S. Presidents; his influence on landmark legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); and visits by prominent international leaders.
EXHIBITION HALL
This exhibition begins from the premise that there is not one single, uniform disability history in the United States, but many. It invites you to explore these many histories through a broad selection of artifacts, documents, artworks, and publications from 1829 to the present. These items offer windows into fourteen themes—”portals” into histories and narratives that highlight different aspects of disability’s pasts, presents, and futures. The core of this exhibition is drawn from the Museum of Disability History’s own collections, previously located in Buffalo. Collection artifacts are placed in dialogue with loans, reproductions, and new acquisitions, both historic and contemporary.
Traveling Exhibits
The Museum of Disability History’s traveling exhibits are a way to bring important disability history themes to diverse audiences across the country. These exhibits are designed to educate and are available for temporary display at museums, educational institutions, libraries, organizations, and other community gathering places.
Collection Archives
The museum’s full collection includes thousands of historic artifacts, documents, and photographs.
NEWS & EVENTS
Our News
Museum of Disability History Open Its Doors
Albertson, NY – Speaking on behalf of her office, individuals with disabilities, and disability advocates on-site for the official opening of the Museum of Disability History at The Viscardi Center on February 17, New York State Chief Disability Officer Kim Hill...
SENSITIVE CONTENT WARNING
We are committed to presenting the history and experiences of disabled individuals including those that acknowledge past injustices and highlight the ongoing fight for disability rights, inclusion, and dignity.
This exhibit includes historical content that may be distressing, including depictions of ableism, discrimination, institutional abuse, offensive language, and outdated medical practices. Some language and imagery reflect the harmful attitudes of their time periods. These materials are presented to acknowledge and learn about past injustices, to honor lived experiences, and support ongoing conversations about disability rights.
We encourage you to engage at your own pace. Seating and quiet spaces are available. Thank you for your respect and openness as we work together to learn from the past and build a more inclusive future.
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Museum of Disability History at The Viscardi Center
Address: 201 I U Willets Road Albertson, NY 11507
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