Photo of one of the original buildings at the Willowbrook state school in black and white.

Willowbrook: The Path Forward

A celebration of inclusion for people with disabilities in all aspects of community life.

The Path Forward:

Remembering Willowbrook

2022 marked the 50th anniversary of Geraldo Rivera’s exposé of Willowbrook State School, which at that time was the largest institution in the world for people with disabilities. The report shocked the nation and forever changed the treatment of people with disabilities. In recognition of this milestone, the CDD produced a half-hour documentary highlighting the importance of lessons learned, positive change that resulted, and the legacy of Willowbrook.

The Path Forward: Remembering Willowbrook is a celebration of inclusion for people with disabilities in all aspects of community life.

Additional Languages
El Camino a seguir: memorias de Willowbrook

Aprenda sobre Willowbrook, el acontecimiento nacional que cambio el mundo del trato de las personas con discapacidades.

瞭解我國的殘障人待遇里程碑

了解我国的残疾人待遇里程碑,以及柳溪如何改变了世界。

Learn More Conversations About Willowbrook

Dr. Michael Wilkins, a physician who worked at Willowbrook and a key whistleblower on its conditions and practices, talks about how he met Bernard Carabello, the challenges they faced together, and the special bond they share.

Impact Over Time
Progress Made

This video playlist features key players in the Willowbrook exposé and other community leaders looking back on progress that has been made and discussing work yet to be done.

Legislative Legacy

Read how public outrage served to spur parent advocacy groups to take action in federal court and and the legislation that followed on the Disability Justice website.