Legal Eagle: Rebecca Williford’s Journey in Disability Rights

The Caring Economy with Toby Usnik

Welcome to The Caring Economy with your host Toby Usnik. In our latest episode, we're honored to feature Rebecca Williford, the President and CEO of Disability Rights Advocates (DRA), the nation's leading nonprofit legal center focused on disability rights impact litigation.

Rebecca shares her incredible journey from a legal fellow to CEO, detailing her passion and dedication to advancing the rights of people with disabilities. As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Rebecca reflects on the progress made and the challenges that remain.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Rebecca's life took a transformative turn when she acquired a neurological disorder as a teenager, leading her to become a wheelchair user. Despite the challenges, Rebecca pursued a career in law, ultimately joining DRA in Berkeley, California. She has since become a prominent disability rights litigator, achieving significant victories that have reshaped the landscape for people with disabilities.

In this episode, Rebecca discusses:

• Her personal journey with disability and how it shaped her career
• The history and mission of Disability Rights Advocates
• Landmark cases that have driven systemic change, including Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled v. Bloomberg and American Council of the Blind v. Hulu
• The intersection of disability rights with technology, education, and emergency preparedness
• The ongoing fight against ableism and the importance of disability pride

Join us as we explore Rebecca’s story of resilience, leadership, and advocacy. Learn about the impact of DRA’s work and the vital importance of enforcing the ADA to ensure a more inclusive society for all.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with insights, challenges, and the ongoing quest for equality. Listen now to The Caring Economy and discover how Rebecca Williford is making a difference in the world of disability rights. Don't forget to check out my book that inspired this whole series!