SV Law recently hosted an ELAS (The Education Law Association) speaker event discussing disability, identity and education. We were delighted to have Professor Tom Shakespeare and Professor David Ruebain speaking at our offices. 

The talk focused on several key issues surrounding accessibility, neurodiversity, and identity politics, highlighting the rising diagnoses of Specific Learning Disabilities (SPLD) and the progress in making public spaces more accessible. Both speakers shared their personal experiences.

They addressed current identity politics that can promote both communality and the recognition of difference. Tom Shakespeare highlighted the importance of having an intersectional perspective, which considers multiple forms of identity and disadvantage, pointing out that it is often underacknowledged in these debates.

The speakers also addressed legal changes and the allocation of funds, noting the challenges of moving from existing systems to more inclusive structures.

There was discussion about President Trump's recent executive decision to ban DEI initiatives in the government.

The event ended with a Q&A session followed by a drinks reception.