A Conversation with Jennifer Reddien

We’re thrilled to introduce you to the newest member of DRA’s Board of Directors: Jennifer Reddien.

Jennifer Reddien has spent much of her career pursuing inclusion and opportunity efforts. Jennifer’s background, personal experiences, and passion for equity and inclusion make her an invaluable leader as Venable’s chief inclusion and opportunity officer.

How did you first learn about DRA?

Last year, I met DRA President & CEO Rebecca Williford when we spoke together on a panel that the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession convened, titled “Including People with Disabilities in the Legal Profession: Moving Beyond Aspiration to Reality.” I was immediately intrigued and impressed with the game-changing work DRA is doing and was drawn to learn more about its mission, cases, and ways to get involved.

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

DRA’s work hits home for me on a personal and professional level, and serving on the Board allows me to be part of moving DRA’s mission forward. As an attorney and someone who knows firsthand what it’s like to live with a disability (although I am not currently practicing), I understand from a unique vantage point the discrimination that the disability community faces and that DRA’s litigation is necessary to dismantle many of the systemic barriers that persist in society.

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

Disability access is often not even on the radar, but it is so critical. Most people don’t realize the barriers that still prevent people with disabilities from participating in some of the most basic aspects of modern life. As an inclusion and opportunity professional, I know how important it is to create and foster inclusive environments, and DRA’s work ensures just that for people with all types of disabilities. Our country is also experiencing new challenges to disability rights, and DRA plays a critical role in remaining vigilant and responding to these challenges.

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

I am most proud of the courage and tenacity of DRA’s staff and clients as they engage in long and hard-fought litigation. Achieving landmark victories like the ones DRA is known for takes many years, and DRA’s clients continue to contend with the barriers they have set out to challenge as they move through the lengthy and taxing phases of litigation. DRA’s work would not be possible without their resilience and determination.

Anything else you want to share?

DRA has achieved so much in its 30+ year history, and I am looking forward to the ways the organization will continue to evolve to meet the needs of the disability community in a rapidly changing world. As a Chicagoan, I am especially excited about the growing impact DRA is making for the local disability community, as it fills a much-needed niche in this part of the country.