Equity Learning Series

We have launched our new monthly Equity Learning Series! These webinars will be geared towards increasing the knowledge, skills, and ability of us all within State Government. We do this to fulfill one of our main goals: delivering services equitably to meet the unique needs of every person in Washington.

Click the link to review the Equity Learning Series FAQ

• Disability in the Court System Webinar Series

Disability in the Court System Webinar Series

The Washington State Office of Equity is proud to present a 6-part series on Disability Justice as part of the Equity Learning Series. Led by Washington State Supreme Court Justice Helen Whitener and Joslyn Nelson, Senior Court Program Analyst for the Disability Justice Task Force, this series explores how ableism and intersecting inequities, including the criminalization of disability and its impact on the Washington’s court systems. Topics include the school-to-prison pipeline, autism and court access, accommodation requests, and the compounded barriers faced by multiply marginalized communities. Each session offers practical insights and strategies to support more inclusive, equitable, and disability-just practices across the legal system.

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• October 8, 2025 – 10:00am-11:30am
• October 15, 2025 – 10:00am-11:30am
• October 22, 2025 – 10:00am-11:30am
• October 29, 2025 – 10:00am-11:30am
• November 12, 2025 - 10:00am-11:30am

Autism in the courts – October 8, 2025

• Explore how standard court practices can create access barriers for autistic individuals, from communication challenges to misinterpreted behaviors. This session outlines strategies courts can adopt to create respectful, inclusive environments.

How marginalized people experience injustice – October 15, 2025

• Through a candid and conversational exchange, this session explores how intersecting identities, such as disability, race, gender, and poverty, compound inequities within the legal system. The discussion will delve into the root causes and offer insights on how courts can respond with intention and equity.

Focus on the courts & Requesting access service – October 22, 2025

• This dialogue-style session explores how Washington’s courts approach disability access and inclusion. Through reflection and conversation, speakers will examine common systemic barriers, identify areas for improvement, and discuss what meaningful access could look like across various court settings. We will also be addressing the real-world challenges individuals encounter when requesting accommodations in court. Speakers will explore practical solutions, clarify what access should entail, and provide examples of how courts can better uphold rights and eliminate confusion.

Domestic violence within disabled communities – October 29, 2025

• This session addresses the unique risks and barriers faced by disabled survivors of domestic violence, including access to protection orders, shelter, and court participation. It highlights how courts and legal systems can offer more effective and accessible support.

November 12, 2025 – 10:00 am-11:30am

Criminalization of Disabilities – November 12, 2025 

• This session explores how systemic gaps in health care, education, and housing contribute to the overrepresentation of people with disabilities in the criminal legal system. It outlines the role courts can play in shifting from punitive to supportive responses.