DHHBA Conference 2024 Logo that depicts the ASL sign for conference with a courthouse building in the middle. On the bottom is the theme: Reconnect. Advocacy. Community.

2024 DHHBA Awards

 

We are thrilled to unveil, for the first time, four awards to recognize the excellence and accomplishments of legal professionals who are Deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, DeafBlind or DeafDisabled. These awards symbolize our commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the talents and contributions of individuals within the legal profession and by highlighting their achievements, we aim to inspire a more diverse and representative legal community.

Please submit your nominee, along with the name of the award and a description detailing how the individual aligns with the criteria for that award. Multiple submissions are welcome. Nominations have been extended until Tuesday, April 30, 2024!

Awardees will be announced at the 2024 DHHBA Conference on July 1 & 2, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois! 

JOHN F. WALDO ADVOCACY AWARD

In honor of the late John F. Waldo, a tireless advocate for disability rights. Awarded to a legal professional who not only champions disability rights and accessibility but devotes a significant amount of time to mentoring other deaf and hard of hearing attorneys.

ROGER O’KELLY LEADERSHIP AWARD

In honor of the first Black DeafBlind lawyer, licensed in 1908. Awarded to an attorney who has broken barriers by being the first to lead the way for others and continuing to serve as an example with their strong leadership.

CLAUDIA L. GORDON WOMEN IN LAW AWARD

In honor of the first Deaf Black woman to get a law degree. An immigrant from Jamaica, Gordon worked in the Obama administration and advised White House offices and senior officials on disability issues. Awarded to a female attorney who advocates for a disability inclusive culture, with an emphasis on diversity and marginalized populations.

MICHAEL A. CHATOFF PIONEER AWARD

In honor of the first deaf attorney who argued a case before the U.S. Supreme Court, in 1982. Awarded to a legal professional who has achieved a milestone accomplishment for the deaf and hard of hearing legal community and continues to push boundaries with their legal advocacy.