The New York City Commission on Human Rights (CHR) announced the appointment of Jaclyn Okin Barney, Esq as a new commissioner on Friday, May 16. They said Okin Barney, a disability rights advocate, brings nearly two decades of experience as a dedicated disability rights attorney, advocate, educator, and policy strategist to the commission.

 

According to CHR, commissioners, who are appointed by the mayor to serve in non-salaried roles, assist the CHR chair and [lead] commissioner in addressing issues of discrimination citywide.

 

“Jaclyn brings years of experience fighting for people with disabilities, and her appointment is a powerful step in making our city more accessible,” said Annabel Palma, commissioner and chair of the NYC Commission on Human Rights. “Her legal and advocacy work has improved the lives of countless New Yorkers, and I am excited to welcome her to the Commission as we continue to make the City more inclusive and equitable for all.”

 

Reacting to the news, Okin Barney said it was an honor to be appointed. “Throughout my career, I have been committed to advocating for people with disabilities, and I am excited to continue that work in this new role,” she said. “I look forward to expanding my efforts to support all New Yorkers, especially those from historically marginalized communities, ensuring equality and independence for everyone.”

 

CHR officials said Okin Barney has extensive experience in special education law, disability policy, and accessibility reform. They said she leads a private practice and serves as director of Parents for Inclusive Education, which successfully secured $100 million to increase the accessibility of NYC public schools. An adjunct professor at the City University of New York, they said she also trains families, educators, and junior attorneys on disability inclusion. They said her work is locally and nationally recognized.

 

Okin Barney joins a board of 11 other mayoral appointees who CHR officials said offer their time and expertise to strengthen the commission’s impact in protecting the rights of all New Yorkers. For more information about the commissioners, click here.

 

The New York City Commission on Human Rights is the agency responsible for enforcing the NYC Human Rights Law, which CHR officials say is one of the most comprehensive civil rights laws in the nation. They said the commission works to promote equality and combat discrimination in New York City through law enforcement, community relations, and public education.

 

Editor’s Note: We asked the commission for a photo with better resolution. Unfortunately, none was available.