David Ferleger, a prominent attorney based in Philadelphia, has dedicated his life to advocating for individuals who face challenges in society. His journey began in the 1960s, a period marked by social upheaval and a growing awareness of civil rights issues. Recognizing his desire to help others, Ferleger pursued a law degree at the University of Pennsylvania, graduating and launching a career that would span decades.
Today, Ferleger is an accomplished litigator and legal scholar with a national practice focused on public interest, civil rights, and disability law. He has argued before the Supreme Court multiple times, marking significant milestones in his advocacy journey. His contributions extend beyond litigation; he is a founding member and board member of the Academy of Court Appointed Masters and a fellow of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He has also taught at respected institutions like New York University Law School and the University of Pennsylvania Law School, enriching the next generation of legal minds.
Ferleger’s passion for disability rights ignited during his law school years, coinciding with the emergence of this critical area of law. “In law school, I got interested in the rights of people with mental health and related disabilities,” he noted. This fascination led him to gain firsthand experience in a state mental hospital, where he witnessed the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues.
His commitment to disability rights is deeply personal. Ferleger discovered that the methods used to persecute Jews during the Holocaust were initially applied to individuals with disabilities. This connection resonates profoundly with him, as more than 128 members of his extended family perished at the hands of the Nazis. “My parents survived the Holocaust, but most of our family was killed,” Ferleger shared, highlighting the weight of history that informs his advocacy.
In 2023, Ferleger furthered his commitment to education by earning a master’s degree in Jewish Studies from Gratz College. His thesis explored the intersection of disability rights and synagogue accommodations, reflecting his lifelong dedication to both legal advocacy and Jewish education. “It’s kind of ironic that I graduated from law school, like, 50 years ago, and my thesis for my master’s degree was on accommodations for people with disabilities,” he stated.
Ferleger’s journey at Gratz College began in his youth when he attended its high school program. He applied for a master’s degree in the early 1990s but faced life and career challenges that delayed his academic pursuits for three decades. This culmination of experiences, both personal and professional, has shaped his understanding of how Jewish texts address issues of disability and accessibility.
His work is driven not only by a desire to make a “practical difference” but also by a commitment to the values instilled in him by his family and Jewish heritage. “I’ve always been, one way or another, studying and learning Jewish literature, Jewish history, Jewish anything,” Ferleger said, emphasizing the importance of continuous education in his life.
Ferleger’s legacy is one of activism and education, bridging the gap between legal rights and community awareness. As he reflects on his journey, his dedication to advocating for those with disabilities continues to inspire others in the legal field and beyond. Through his efforts, he not only champions the rights of individuals but also fosters a deeper understanding of the historical contexts that shape these issues today.
