A Conversation with James Ian

We’re thrilled to introduce you to the newest member of DRA’s Board of Directors: James Ian. James is an award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, writer, and graduate of Georgetown University Law Center. He has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (“SMA”) Type 3, and is a passionate advocate for authentic representation of disabled artists in music, TV, film, and other media.

Portrait of James Ian

How did you first learn about DRA?

I met DRA’s Chief Operating Officer, Kate Hamilton, at an event for actors in Los Angeles. I’d heard of DRA before and when she talked to me about the work and the cases, I got excited!

Why did you decide to join DRA’s board of directors?

I went to law school to do this kind of work. To change laws and advocate for people with disabilities. Once I learned more about DRA’s mission, I felt that with my legal background and DRA’s mission, there was a really good fit. I felt I could leverage my legal skills and my network and my artistry to elevate DRA’s mission. My parents are very happy about me coming home to the legal profession!

Why do you think DRA’s work is urgent and important?

The ADA was passed 34 years ago and in terms of enforcement, there’s a really big gap. People are still disenfranchised in everyday life—living in an inaccessible world. You would think that after more than three decades we would be further along in terms of accessibility and legislation surrounding people with disabilities. Civil rights for people with disabilities are so long overdue. I hear more stories all the time of people being denied access, injured, etc. because of inaccessibility and ableism. People have the right to pursue their dreams freely and they’re being denied that. There’s no time for delay.

What aspect of DRA’s work are you most proud of?

The wins with cases that are helping to shape policy and set precedents—especially around transportation—the subway casework in New York is really important. Access to public transportation is a very basic right. Everyone deserves to be able to get where you’re going. Air travel is another really important issue.

Anything else you want to share?

I’m really excited to network more and get the word out more about DRA and expose the organization to more people. I’m excited to bring more people into DRA. That’s a really big goal for me.