Kaylee De Tender

I have always been very passionate about giving people a voice and helping others navigate systems that can feel overwhelming or inaccessible. Throughout my career, I have seen first-hand how discrimination, harassment, retaliation, inequitable treatment, and other such misconduct impacts people beyond just work. Companies already get so much handed to them and get away with so much. Representing people allows me to advocate directly and help them navigate what are likely some of the most stressful moments of their lives. I care a lot about making sure that others feel supported. In summary, I want to be the help and support I can only imagine I’d need while being exposed to misconduct.

I would tell people to document everything, trust their instincts, and reach out for support early. Regarding support, I would remind them that this does not need to be limited to their companies’ HR; support can come from family, friends, community, and so on. I would also remind people that they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and should give themselves grace while navigating a stressful and possibly demeaning process. Finally, I would note that people do not need to navigate this process alone.

Given my background in ADA accommodations, Title IX and EEO investigations, and compliance, the employee rights act that resonates with me most is the Americans with Disabilities Act. From experience, accessibility is often something overlooked or neglected by employers. I am passionate about ensuring people have equitable access to work (but also life outside of work) and this commitment is embodied within the ADA. While not perfect, I appreciate that it protects employees who face both visible and invisible barriers and that it provides a pathway to ensure that employees with disabilities are supported, heard, and feel included at their places of employment.