Paul Steven Miller

Paul Steven Miller EEOC

Paul Steven Miller (July 4, 1961 – October 19, 2010) was an influential American lawyer, professor, and public servant who made significant contributions to disability rights and employment law. Born with achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism, Miller faced numerous challenges and discrimination due to his disability. However, he turned these experiences into a powerful force for advocacy and change, becoming one of the most respected voices in the field of disability rights.

Early Life and Education

Miller was born in Queens, New York, and grew up facing both societal and physical barriers due to his dwarfism. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically and was determined to pursue a career in law. Miller attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He then went on to Harvard Law School, overcoming significant adversity, including initially being rejected due to concerns about his ability to physically handle the rigors of the profession. Miller graduated from Harvard Law School, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in law and advocacy.

Career

After graduating from law school, Miller's career spanned across academia, government, and advocacy. He began his career at a prestigious law firm but soon moved into public service. One of his most notable roles was serving as the Commissioner of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) from 1994 to 2004, where he was a staunch advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Miller played a crucial role in the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), one of the most comprehensive pieces of civil rights legislation aimed at prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities.

Miller also had a significant impact on academia. He was a professor at the University of Washington School of Law, where he specialized in civil rights, disability law, and bioethics. Miller's work in bioethics, particularly regarding genetic discrimination and the ethics of genetic selection, was groundbreaking. He advocated for policies that would ensure the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities were respected in the face of advancing genetic technologies.

Advocacy and Legacy

Throughout his life, Miller was a tireless advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. He served on numerous boards and commissions, including the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, and was an advisor to Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama on disability rights issues. Miller's advocacy was not limited to the United States; he also worked internationally, promoting disability rights and anti-discrimination laws around the world.

Miller's legacy is one of resilience, advocacy, and groundbreaking achievements in the fight for equality for people with disabilities. His work has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in public service and advocacy, and his contributions to disability rights and employment law continue to impact lives today.

Death and Posthumous Recognition

Paul Steven Miller passed away on October 19, 2010, after a battle with cancer. His death was a significant loss to the disability rights community and all who had been touched by his work. Posthumously, Miller has been recognized for his contributions to law, advocacy, and education. His life and career serve as a powerful example of how individuals can overcome personal challenges to make a significant impact on society.

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