Professor Robert Dinerstein’s Global Impact
On January 1, 2024, Professor Robert Dinerstein bid farewell to an illustrious career at American University Washington College of Law (AUWCL) that spanned over four decades. Renowned for his tireless dedication to advancing disability rights domestically and abroad, Professor Dinerstein reshaped clinical legal education, illuminating the path toward a more inclusive and equitable global legal landscape. To celebrate his remarkable journey, we share highlights from Professor Dinerstein's interview with Swachita Ravi (LL.M.’23).
Throughout his tenure at AUWCL, Professor Dinerstein occupied pivotal roles, including acting dean, associate dean for academic affairs, associate dean for experiential education, and director of the clinical program. His impact extended far beyond the corridors of AUWCL, reaching courtrooms and legal systems around the world. At the heart of Professor Dinerstein's career is the Disability Rights Law Clinic at AUWCL, a pioneering initiative that brought together experiential learning and disability rights advocacy. His work surpassed national boundaries, establishing new standards for law and disability rights worldwide. A defining characteristic of Professor Dinerstein's legacy is his international perspective on disability rights, transcending theoretical discussions to develop tangible contributions to legal discourse and practice worldwide. His engagement with international human rights, particularly his work on Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), has left an indelible mark.
Beyond academia, Professor Dinerstein played a critical role as a founding member of Disability Rights International (formerly Mental Disability Rights International), demonstrating a commitment to building local capacity for sustainable change. Professor Dinerstein's impact on disability rights reached its height in Hungary and Ghana, where his roles were marked by a nuanced understanding of local cultural contexts and legal frameworks.
In Hungary, Professor Dinerstein delved into the complexities of guardianship laws, advocating for enhanced due process protections for individuals with disabilities and reshaping legal practices. The endeavor was not without its challenges, as cultural and legal barriers often intersected, requiring a balance between advocacy and cultural sensitivity.
In Ghana, Professor Dinerstein confronted the pressing issue of over-institutionalization. Navigating the complexities of a society where traditional beliefs often influenced legal frameworks, his role transcended legal analysis. It involved active engagement with local communities, a deep understanding of cultural dynamics, and advocacy for systemic changes addressing the root causes of over-institutionalization.
A pinnacle of Professor Dinerstein's international engagement was his role as a principal investigator for the Open Society Foundation's Disability Scholarship Program (OSF Disability Program). At AUWCL, the program mentored the next generation of human rights lawyers specializing in disability law. The program's impact was profound, providing a platform for legal professionals from Sudan, India, Canada, Sweden, and South America to immerse themselves in disability rights advocacy.
Under Professor Dinerstein's mentorship, these scholars not only gained theoretical knowledge but also developed practical skills and a deep understanding of disability laws. His work in Hungary, Ghana, Canada, and other nations underscored his commitment to bridging the gap between legal theory and practice on a global scale. Whether advocating for due process in Eastern Europe or championing deinstitutionalization in Africa, Professor Dinerstein's impact was evident, leading to changes in legal systems and societal attitudes.
In response to inquiries about his retirement plans, Professor Dinerstein humorously remarked, "I think I am failing retirement so far." Instead of embracing leisure, he remains deeply involved in a myriad of activities, seamlessly bridging academia and real-world impact. A key aspect of his retirement is his continued involvement in international initiatives. Recently, he shared insights for a short course on social justice during a virtual gathering hosted by Stellenbosch University in South Africa. This commitment echoes his dedication to addressing global issues and collaborating with institutions worldwide, particularly in Africa, where his work with the University of Pretoria continues to shape his international contributions.
Professor Dinerstein currently serves as Chair of the American Bar Association (ABA) Commission on Disability Rights, a position he’s held for two years, emphasizing his commitment to advocacy at the intersection of law and disability rights. In addition, his role as the co-chair of the Disability Rights Committee of the ABA Civil Rights and Social Justice Section, ensures his expertise guides critical discussions and initiatives. In the realm of clinical education, he consults with institutions seeking guidance on their clinical programs. His latest book aims to document the history and evolution of legal pedagogy.
A particularly intriguing facet of Professor Dinerstein's future endeavors lies in his interest in prenatal diagnosis and counseling. His exploration of the ethical dimensions of potential gene editing to eliminate certain disabilities promises to provoke important conversations in the intersection of law, ethics, and medical science. Professor Dinerstein's approach remains rooted in a commitment to challenge societal norms and foster inclusive practices.
In a reflective moment, Professor Dinerstein acknowledges that the legal landscape surrounding disability rights is far from perfect. He recognizes the challenges in dismantling age-old stigmas and fostering attitudinal change, particularly in societies where mental health and intellectual disabilities remain inadequately addressed. Looking towards the future, Professor Dinerstein contends that progress in disability rights hinges on the commitment of successive generations. He encourages the upcoming cohort of legal professionals to challenge existing norms, push for inclusivity, and critically engage with differing perspectives.
“I think it's an important thing for lawyers to have some exposure to a variety of different underrepresented groups - disability being one. ”
Professor Robert Dinerstein