Standing Firm: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Denise DiNoto

“Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.” – Abraham Lincoln

The quote from Abraham Lincoln resonates deeply when reflecting on the life and work of Denise DiNoto. When I think about effective advocacy—what it looks like in action and what it asks of us—I think of Denise DiNoto.

I came to know Denise through the New York State Department of Health’s Disability and Employment Health program, but our connection quickly grew beyond professional collaboration. Denise was not only a skilled advocate and strategist; she was a generous colleague and a steadfast supporter of others’ growth. Her clarity, compassion, and belief in the power of both systems and individuals to create change left a lasting impression on me—and on so many others whose lives and work she touched.

She had a clear understanding of the importance of effecting change from within established systems, yet she was never reluctant to speak out when it counted. Our mutual interest in writing created a meaningful connection between us. When I first considered launching this blog, Denise offered thoughtful guidance and encouragement that played a key role in moving the idea forward.

At a time when I was still finding my voice, Denise encouraged me to keep writing and reminded me that my message and creative work had value. Her belief in what I had to say made a lasting and deeply personal impact. Her insight and generosity left a lasting impression on me, as they did on so many others whose lives and work she touched. The impact she had on those around her continues to resonate in both personal and professional ways.

What made Denise such an effective advocate was her nuanced understanding of how to create meaningful, lasting change. She believed in the ability of institutions and systems to evolve and improve. With insight and care, she navigated these structures in ways that encouraged broader participation and a more thoughtful response to diverse needs.

In meetings and public forums, she brought a thoughtful blend of facts, personal insight, and quiet determination. She built relationships, remained well-informed, and worked skillfully within established systems to encourage progress. By reminding decision-makers of their responsibilities and offering clear, constructive ideas, she helped shape meaningful and realistic paths forward.

Denise also understood that systems have limits. She knew that progress isn’t always timely or fair when it relies only on institutions. When she reached those limits, she didn’t hesitate to step outside the system and speak out in other ways. Whether through public speaking or engaging directly with the community, she used her voice to highlight the barriers faced by people with disabilities and to advocate for equity, fairness, and real change in clear and powerful ways.

Denise’s effectiveness as an advocate stemmed from her ability to balance two essential approaches: engaging with systems when they offered a path forward, and stepping beyond them when that path became too narrow. Rather than seeing these roles as contradictory, Denise understood them as complementary aspects of thoughtful advocacy.

Her ability to work within systems while also recognizing when to step outside them reflected a steady commitment to dignity, self-determination, and equity. For her, this dual approach reflected a belief that meaningful progress often depends on both working with established structures and knowing when to seek alternatives.

Denise DiNoto’s work and presence left a lasting impact. She demonstrated that the heart of advocacy lies in standing firmly in the right place—with empathy, conviction, and a commitment to possibility. Her legacy will continue to guide and inspire.

— K.A. Wiley

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