A Seat at the Table: One Step at a Time

Yesterday, I had the great pleasure of chatting with Peter Thomas, of Powers Law. 

As a result of an automobile accident at age ten, Thomas lost both of his legs from the knee below. Thomas' eight year-old brother did not survive the accident. Peter has since engaged rehabilitative therapy and technology, including the use of prosthesis, to gain mobility. 

I originally thought my meeting with Thomas was going to cover accessibility and disability culture during his law school years. He entered law school after the passage of the Rehab Act, and he graduated just before the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Instead, much to my humble surprise and happiness, our conversation broadened to include inspiration, hope, and encouragement for disabled students aspiring to stand as agents of change. 


I appreciate the humility with which Peter speaks during our chat, noting the breadth of disabilities in our world and the fact that our work as advocates is far from over. He is excited for the next generation of disability rights advocates, attorneys, and leaders. It is my hope that his words give someone the uplifting boost of confidence needed to take the next assertive step towards greatness. 

As mentioned in the chat, here are the following links:

Bobby Silverstein's Synthesis: Powerpoint, Iowa Law Review Article

Don Fresh and Peter Thomas' Book is Here

Music Credit: Archie Smith