The New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, in partnership with the New York State Digital and Media Services Center, produced a documentary highlighting the importance of lessons learned, positive change that resulted, and the legacy of Willowbrook State School.
Path Forward: Remembering Willowbrook airs Tuesday, January 23 at 11:30 p.m. on WXXI-TV
In 1972, Geraldo Rivera produced an exposé on the Willowbrook State School in Staten Island, shocking the nation and forever changing the treatment of people with disabilities in the state and across the country. In recognition of the 50th anniversary of this landmark moment, this film highlights the importance of the lessons learned, the positive change that resulted, and how to move forward from the legacy of Willowbrook.
This program is presented as part of Dialogue on Disability, a partnership between WXXI and Al Sigl Community of Agencies – in conjunction with the Herman and Margaret Schwartz Community Series. Dialogue on Disability is supported by the Fred L. Emerson Foundation with additional support from The Golisano Foundation. The weeklong initiative runs January 22 through January 28, 2024.
WXXI and Al Sigl have been hosting Dialogue on Disability since 2005. In 2014, with the support of businessman and philanthropist Tom Golisano and the Golisano Foundation, Move to Include™ was formed. This initiative enables WXXI to present and develop programming that promotes inclusion year round.
Photo: Willowbrook State School • Provided by PBS