This day, observed annually on December 3rd, aims to promote an understanding of disability and mobilise support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. The theme for this year is "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future".
The event, titled 'Breaking Down Barriers at the Irish Bar,' featured an inspiring session with Sofiya Kalinova B.L., who shared her remarkable journey to becoming Ireland's first deaf person to qualify as a barrister and the first to practice law in Irish Sign Language (ISL). A graduate of University College Dublin and the King’s Inns, Sofia was called to the Bar by Chief Justice Donal O’Donnell in 2023.
Creating space to discuss the barriers within the legal system for people with disabilities is crucial to fostering a more inclusive workplace for all.
Inclusion is at the heart of our principles at William Fry, and we are deeply grateful to Sofiya for sharing her story and insights, as well as to the ISL interpreter for their invaluable contribution.
