Honoring Congressman Steny Hoyer with the 2026 Gordon H. Mansfield Award

A Night of Recognition: Congressman Steny Hoyer Honored

On June 11, 2026, at the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Advocacy Legislation Seminar, Congressman Steny Hoyer from Maryland was presented with the prestigious 2026 Gordon H. Mansfield Congressional Leadership Award. The event gathered around 150 chapter leaders and caregivers dedicated to advocating for veterans with catastrophic disabilities, culminating in nearly 300 meetings with congressional representatives.

The ceremony took place during an evening reception, marking a day filled with impactful discussions focused on legislative priorities crucial to the veteran community. The PVA's CEO, Carl Blake, highlighted Congressman Hoyer's significant contributions to the disability community, notably his role in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and the ADA Amendments Act in 2008. Blake stated, "His sustained commitment to the disability community reflects the spirit this award was created to recognize."

Congressman Hoyer's advocacy extends beyond legislative measures; his efforts have been pivotal in enhancing voting accessibility through initiatives like the Help America Vote Act of 2002, reinforcing the importance of equal rights for individuals with disabilities.

"There is no better place or time to present this award than at our annual legislative event with so many PVA members in attendance," Blake continued, expressing gratitude for Hoyer's unwavering support of veterans, particularly those with extensive disabilities.

First awarded to Senator Bob Dole in 2015, the Gordon H. Mansfield Award honors exceptional leadership and commitment to the legislative priorities of the PVA. This accolade celebrates the legacy of Gordon Mansfield, a decorated Vietnam veteran and a pioneering advocate for veterans' rights.

In his acceptance speech, Rep. Hoyer expressed his gratitude, stating, "Being recognized in Gordon Mansfield's name humbles me. Fighting for the rights of people with disabilities has been one of the great privileges of my career." His words resonated not just with those in attendance but also echoed the impact of a career devoted to championing the rights of Americans living with disabilities.

For over 80 years, PVA has been a leading advocate for veterans with catastrophic injuries, ensuring that they receive the essential benefits they earned during their service. The organization also plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation and support of these veterans, as well as their families and caregivers. Their commitment promotes accessibility and advocates for the health and well-being of veterans with spinal cord injuries.

To learn more about the efforts by Paralyzed Veterans of America and how they are making a difference, one can visit their website at PVA.org. With numerous offices and chapters, PVA remains committed to representing veterans across the nation, particularly those who are catastrophically disabled.

Congressman Steny Hoyer’s recognition serves as a reminder of the power of advocacy in transforming legislation into meaningful change for the disability community. As a respected leader in Congress, Hoyer embodies the ongoing fight for equality and recognition that veterans and all individuals with disabilities strive for every day.