Contract Legislative Consultant

About Disability Rights Washington:

We are a private non-profit organization that protects the rights of people with disabilities statewide. Our mission is to advance the dignity, equality, and self-determination of people with disabilities. We pursue justice on matters related to human and legal rights.

DRW recognizes that the disability rights movement is inseparable from the human rights movements for racial, economic, and gender equity. We recognize that people with disabilities must be at the forefront of any successful fight for justice.  Our work is rooted in the firm belief that all people deserve respect, dignity, and self-determination.

DRW understands that all types of oppression are interlocking and that prejudices which harm people with disabilities are compounded based on race, ethnicity, immigration status, gender, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status. We value collaboration across movements as key to dismantling ableism, racism, sexism, xenophobia, homophobia, and transphobia within our organization, the disability rights movement, and the broader society. To learn more, visit our Collaborations page.

Disability Rights Washington (DRW) values diversity of culture, disability and other life experiences, and is an equal opportunity employer by choice. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, race or disability. We endorse and support the intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Washington Law Against Discrimination and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are applicants or employees who need accommodations. People with disabilities, people of color, people in all other protected classes, and formerly incarcerated people are encouraged to apply.

Position Summary:

DRW is seeking a legislative consultant to help us maintain a positive presence in the legislature and help us further solidify our reputation as a reliable and trustworthy source of information. DRW supports several different constituent engagement groups, and the Legislative Consultant may be asked to engage with them. The Policy Director will be the primary contact within DRW for the Legislative Consultant and will be the primary voice of the organization in Olympia. This position will be the eyes and ears on the group to help us navigate the legislative process and culture.

• Inform DRW staff of opportunities to testify at hearings, meet with legislative staff, and other activities, which will promote the DRW advocacy agenda.
• Advise DRW on how to respond to requests from legislators as needed.
• Assist DRW in the preparation and distribution of materials to appropriate parties.
• Monitor activity and conversations outside of public hearings related to our advocacy agenda.
• Provide guidance regarding legislative strategy and communications.
• Assist with developing key legislative relationships.
• Meet regularly with the Public Policy Director and other staff.
• Meet with and present to DRW constituent groups as needed and as available.

Compensation and Benefits:

This contract will run from November until the end of session plus one month for governor bill action, with the possibility for renewal. The compensation range is $1,500-$2,000 per month, depending on experience. Expenses and travel are covered by the monthly compensation.

Application:

Proposals should be submitted via email to Darya Farivar at daryaf@dr-wa.org. Required components:

1.    Letter of interest including:

a.    A statement of understanding and commitment to, racial equity, inclusion, dignity and self-determination of people with disabilities and examples of this in the applicants work. 

b.    Three examples of successes achieved in the past five years with current or former clients, or equivalent relevant work experience.

2.    Resume(s) for the individual(s) who will be working on behalf of DRW under this contract that highlights their capacity to successfully perform the functions outlined.

Submit proposals by October 21, 2020. Interviews will be the week of October 26-30, 2020. Questions about proposals should be directed to Darya Farivar at the above email address. Finalists will be asked to submit additional materials including references.