Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming New York Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow to John’s Crazy Socks for a tour, a meeting with our Sock Wranglers, and a conversation about expanding employment opportunities for people with differing abilities.
John gave Assemblyman O’Pharrow a tour of our operations, stopping to introduce him to our Sock Wranglers, showing how we pick and pack our orders, and sharing why inclusion is at the heart of our business. As always, John brought charm, stories, and joy.
But this visit went far beyond a tour.
A Conversation About What’s Possible
Assemblyman O’Pharrow brings an extraordinary history of service: Navy veteran, longtime NYPD Detective, community leader, youth mentor, and advocate for families across Long Island. His dedication to building strong, connected communities shines through in everything he does.
Together, we discussed some of the most critical issues facing people with differing abilities today:
Employment challenges highlighted in Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s recent report
Unemployment and underemployment remain far too high among people with disabilities. This is a systemic issue and one that demands attention and action.
Eliminating the subminimum wage
We shared our long-standing advocacy to end the outdated subminimum wage. No one should be paid less than minimum wage because of a disability. Equal work deserves equal pay.
The business case for inclusive hiring
We showed the Assemblyman what we know from experience:
Hiring people with differing abilities is not altruism;
it’s good business.
Our colleagues are loyal, dedicated, and essential to our success.
Entrepreneurship as a pathway to independence
John’s entrepreneurial journey changed his life and created jobs for others. We discussed ways New York State can make entrepreneurship accessible to people with differing abilities, including creating a category of disability-owned businesses, establishing set-asides, offering technical support, and providing access to grants.
John has set an example as an entrepreneur with Down syndrome, and we have helped over a dozen businesses get started. We want to scale that option to create many more disability-owned businesses.
A Leader Willing to Listen and Act
What struck us most was Assemblyman O’Pharrow’s genuine engagement. He asked thoughtful questions, spent time with our team members, and showed a sincere desire to support policies that expand employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
He didn’t just come to see our business, he came to understand the people behind it.
Moving Forward Together
At John’s Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising, our objectives are clear:
-
Show what people with differing abilities can do.
-
Create meaningful work.
-
Build businesses that make the world more inclusive.
Visits like today’s help move that mission forward. Every conversation with leaders who care brings us one step closer to a New York where every person, of every ability, has the chance to contribute, thrive, and shine.
We are grateful to Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow for taking the time to meet with us, and we look forward to partnering to build greater opportunity for all.
