WASHINGTON D.C. (July 9, 2008) – Seth Galanter, Of Counsel at Morrison & Foerster LLP, was sworn in at a ceremony yesterday to begin his service on the newly constituted District of Columbia Commission on Persons with Disabilities. The Commission was created to enhance the image, status, inclusion, and quality of life for all District of Columbia residents, visitors, and employees with disabilities. The Commission will serve as an advisory body to inform and advise the District on programs, services, facilities, and activities that impact the lives of residents with disabilities in D.C.

Mr. Galanter was appointed by Mayor Adrian Fenty, along with about a dozen others, because of his experience with and demonstrated interest in issues that impact persons with disabilities. Mr. Galanter was recently honored by the D.C. Bar as Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year in recognition of his unwavering commitment to the disabled community, as reflected in the many litigation matters he has handled at Morrison & Foerster, including a major settlement with the District of Columbia to make public parking meters accessible to persons in wheelchairs. Mr. Galanter has also litigated cases on behalf of children with disabilities, blind vendors, and prisoners claiming discrimination on the basis of disability.

Mr. Galanter will serve for a two-year term and, as part of his duties, will work with the other appointees to produce a five-year strategic plan with annual goals and objectives in order to provide inclusive communities and service delivery systems to persons with disabilities and their families.