Attorney General Healey Announces Creation of Disability Rights Advisory Committee

Jeffrey Keilson, senior vice president of strategic planning at Advocates, named to the Committee.

Continuing her efforts to protect civil rights of all Massachusetts residents, Attorney General Maura Healey announced the formation of a Disability Rights Advisory Committee as part of the events celebrating the 25th anniversary for the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The committee will be comprised of advocates and experts that will meet on a regular basis to consult with and advise AG Healey and her staff on matters pertaining to inclusion, access, and equality for individuals with disabilities.

“My office is committed to expanding opportunities and enhancing inclusion for individuals with disabilities,” Healey said, in a statement. “I thank the members of the committee for their willingness to work collaboratively with us. I know that our work will be more effective and better informed by direct and regular contact with the advocates who understand these issues intimately.”

The committee will include individuals with a range of backgrounds and experiences, including individuals with hearing, mobility and visual impairments. Their expertise also covers numerous areas of psycho-social disability work from developmental and cognitive impairments to mental illnesses and behavioral health. Some of the members are long-time advocates in the field with a breadth of expertise, while others represent more specialized interests such as architectural access, youth, veterans, and technology.

“I applaud the Attorney General for her long-standing commitment to disability rights,” said Christine Griffin, Executive Director of the Disability Law Center. “I am honored to be serving on this advisory committee and look forward to working closely with the Attorney General to advance the work of the Office on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families.”