Honoring Constantine Zografopoulos
Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth invited business entrepreneur and inclusivity advocate Constantine Zografopoulos to the July 15 City Council meeting to be recognized for Disability Pride Month. Read her full remarks below.
Colleagues, honorees in the box, 48th ward staff and guests in the gallery.
Before I was alderwoman of the 48th ward, I was a physical therapist at Cook County. Working there was an everyday reminder that anyone who is able-bodied today is “temporarily abled”. Illness, injury and natural aging are all ways our abilities can be compromised.
But as Stevie Wonder says, “Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision.”
Today, in recognition of Disability Pride Month, I am honored to give a special recognition to Constantine "Gus" Zografopoulos, whose life is a remarkable example of resilience, and whose vision for a more inclusive world for all has already helped so many.
After a devastating car accident in 1995 and the loss of both of his legs, Constantine chose not to let tragedy define him. Instead, he dedicated his life to breaking down barriers for others.
For more than two decades, through the Open Doors Organization and as founder of the Z Life Program, Constantine has worked to make travel more accessible for people with disabilities. He has advised airlines, businesses, and organizations around the world, helping transform the travel experience for millions of people.
Here in Chicago, his impact is visible across our city. He has mentored countless individuals through Shirley Ryan AbilityLab., helped advance accessible improvements to our lakefront, and helped organize the annual Beyond the Waters Beach Party at Hollywood Beach in the 48th ward, so hundreds of people with and without disabilities can enjoy our beaches together.
His advocacy extends far beyond Chicago. He founded Perpato, a leading disability organization in Greece, has served on numerous national and international advisory boards, carried the Olympic torch during the 2004 Athens Olympic and Paralympic Games, and was honored as the 2023 Grand Marshal of the Chicago Disability Pride Parade.
Just as important as his accomplishments is the philosophy that guides his work. Constantine's personal motto is simple but powerful: "Just Say Hi." It reminds us that inclusion begins with something as basic as acknowledging one another's humanity, seeing one another, and making everyone feel welcome.
One summer, at the Beyond the Waters Beach Party, where Constantine had the cooperation and support from Chicago Park District and Commissioner Arfa at MOPD, dozens of volunteers and the support from caregivers, Constantine confided in me about the many many challenges of putting together this yearly event and the struggles with logistical moving parts on top of the unpredictability of Chicago’s weather. I remember we were interrupted by a polite young man who traveled a great distance with his family. He really wanted to meet Constantine. He just wanted to say Hi. To tell Constantine what a wonderful time he had. He got to go on the beach. He got to touch the water and enjoy the lake. It was a first time experience. A memory for a lifetime.
Constantine, that young man saw you on that day and today everyone here sees you too. As you share and implement your vision, the world reflects it back on to you. It is one filled with care, joy and love and we are grateful.
Everyone- Please join me in recognizing Constantine Zografopoulos for his unwavering leadership, his compassionate service, and his enduring commitment to ensuring that every person can fully participate in our communities. Congratulations, Constantine, and thank you for making Chicago, and the world, a more accessible place for us all.