We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Paul O’Hanlon, a longtime member of the Consortium’s Steering Committee and a leading voice for disability rights in Western Pennsylvania.
Paul devoted his life to expanding access and equity for people with disabilities, advancing crucial improvements in public transit, voting access, affordable and accessible housing, and community inclusion. His legal expertise, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to civil rights helped transform systems that touch thousands of lives in our region.
As a Steering Committee member, Paul was a generous collaborator and trusted advisor. He brought history, heart, and humor to our work and he pushed all of us to think bigger and act boldly. Many of us also knew Paul as a friend whose encouragement, mentorship, and kindness shaped their advocacy and personal paths.
Paul passed away on November 30 at the age of 71. This loss is felt deeply across the disability community in Pittsburgh and far beyond.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Paul’s family as well as to his many colleagues, friends, and fellow advocates. We are profoundly grateful for his years of service to the Consortium and the enduring impact of his leadership.
To learn more about Paul’s remarkable life and legacy, please read these tributes from partners in our community:
- “Remembering Paul O’Hanlon – activist for transit, voting rights and people with disabilities” by Kate Giammarise, 90.5 WESA
- “Rest in power, Paul O’Hanlon – A PPT Rememberance” by Pittsburghers for Public Transit
