José Hernandez

José Hernandez is a C-5 quadriplegic due to a spinal cord injury sustained when he was 15 years old. He has a passion for helping other individuals with similar disabilities. Jose has mentored individuals in nursing homes and in rehab centers. He is currently the NYC Advocacy Coordinator for United Spinal Association and the President of United Spinal’s New York City chapter. He was appointed by New York City Mayor Bill DeBlasio as a Commissioner on the Civic Engagement Commission to help ensure that the city includes individuals with disabilities in all aspects of civic engagement.

José has a passion for advocacy. He has visited Washington DC on numerous occasions to speak with elected officials, and advocated on a local level, meeting with New York City Councilmembers and New York State Senators and Assembly Members. His advocacy is driven by his desire to help ensure that individuals with disabilities are considered equally in all aspects of society.