Craig Leen: Shares Commitment to Advocacy for Those with Disabilities in Both Public and Private Sectors

In this episode of Disability Matters, Joyce Bender interviews Craig Leen, former head of OFCCP and current attorney at K&L Gates, about his extensive involvement in disability advocacy. Leen shares his personal journey, from early experiences in school programs and the Special Olympics to advocating for his daughter with autism and promoting disability inclusion as OFCCP Director. The conversation covers the importance of affirmative action for people with disabilities, the proposed changes to Section 503 regulations, and the need for continued support and inclusion in the workforce. Jennifer Towles joins the conversation to discuss a Department of Energy direct final rule and Section 503. Both Bender and Leen emphasize the bipartisan nature of disability rights and the value of including people with disabilities in all aspects of society.

Outlines

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Disability Matters

Introduction to Disability Matters and Guest Craig Leen

Craig Leen's Early Involvement and Advocacy in Disability Rights

OFCCP Leadership and Continued Advocacy

Affirmative Action and Hiring Practices for People with Disabilities

The Importance of Employment and Section 503

Update on Department of Energy Rule and Section 503 Concerns

Comments on Section 503 and the Importance of Benchmarks

Craig Leen's Specializations, Role Models, and Bipartisan Support for Disability Rights

Call to Action and Closing Remarks

Craig Leen: Shares Commitment to Advocacy for Those with Disabilities in Both Public and Private Sectors

Disability Matters

00:00Introduction to Disability Matters and Guest Craig Leen

Introduction to Disability Matters and Guest Craig Leen

05:07Craig Leen's Early Involvement and Advocacy in Disability Rights

Craig Leen's Early Involvement and Advocacy in Disability Rights

17:19OFCCP Leadership and Continued Advocacy

OFCCP Leadership and Continued Advocacy

23:31Affirmative Action and Hiring Practices for People with Disabilities

Affirmative Action and Hiring Practices for People with Disabilities

30:27The Importance of Employment and Section 503

The Importance of Employment and Section 503

35:04Update on Department of Energy Rule and Section 503 Concerns

Update on Department of Energy Rule and Section 503 Concerns

44:25Comments on Section 503 and the Importance of Benchmarks

Comments on Section 503 and the Importance of Benchmarks

50:35Craig Leen's Specializations, Role Models, and Bipartisan Support for Disability Rights

Craig Leen's Specializations, Role Models, and Bipartisan Support for Disability Rights

58:07Call to Action and Closing Remarks

Call to Action and Closing Remarks