Bob Dinerstein Discusses the Changing Landscape of Disability Rights

Highlights

• Dinerstein shared how he came to be inspired to work in this area of the law, touching on his law school and work experiences, and his relationship with his younger sister, who has an intellectual disability.
• He talked about the stigma associated with having a disability, “particularly … intellectual and psychosocial or mental disability, because of a belief often fueled by misinformation about what folks are capable of doing and also what risks they might present to others.”
• He discussed disclosure, noting that there have been positive developments, especially around neurodivergence, but that disclosure remains a personal decision. “There is definitely more disability consciousness now, and I think over time, more and more people are getting more and more comfortable with that.”
• He talked about the history and role of the ABA Commission on Disability Rights, highlighting the Commission’s Pledge for Change: Disability Diversity in the Legal Profession, and practical ways that law firms can build a culture of belonging and inclusivity for lawyers and professional staff with disabilities.
• He discussed the progress made and challenges that still exist under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Transcript

Dimensions of Diversity | Advancing Disability Rights in Law and Beyond with Robert Dinerstein