Don’t mess with Texas? More like don’t mess with Section 504—and Kaleigh Brendle. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the rights of people with disabilities in universities, hospitals, and other institutions that receive federal financial assistance. But in September, 17 states filed a lawsuit claiming Section 504 is unconstitutional as it stands. Their argument? That recent guidance from the Biden administration, particularly those including gender dysphoria as a disability and emphasizing accommodations be provided in integrated settings, goes too far. Kaleigh Brendle joins Marissa (again!) on Blonde & Blind to unpack what this lawsuit could mean for Section 504 and the civil rights of the disability community. They tackle the misconception that the lawsuit only targets trans people, and stress the importance of cross-community allyship in the fight for justice.
Kaleigh Brendle is a senior at Villanova University studying English, Justice & Peace, and Argumentation & Advocacy. She’s heavily involved with the National Federation of the Blind and is on the executive board of Villanova’s disability alliance LEVEL. Kaleigh is extremely passionate about disability rights and is an aspiring lawyer. She previously appeared on Blonde & Blind in December 2020 to share her experience suing the College Board in "Not Blind to Injustice."
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Connect with Kaleigh!
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kaleighbrendle/
Facebook - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaleigh-brendle-8a8a0124b
LinkedIn - https://www.facebook.com/friday.live.31/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kaleigh.brendle/video/7472500905045282091
Key Points:
5:09 - What is section 504?
9:50 - What is section 504 important?
12:00 - What is Texas v. Becerra?
18:05 - Some argue that this lawsuit is only about gender dysphoria, not about eliminating 504. What is your response to that?
26:14 - What can people do to get involved?
Get Involved - https://dredf.org/protect-504/
Resources & Transcript - https://www.blondeblind.com/post/37-don-t-mess-with-section-504-feat-kaleigh-brendle
