National Disability Employment Awareness Month is observed in October to recognize the significant contributions made by disabled people to the American economy.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 21.3 percent of disabled people were employed last year, up from 19.1 percent in 2021. However, the unemployment rate for disabled people is still triple that of non-disabled people.
I began looking for work in December 2019. I have filled out hundreds of applications since. Sadly, some employers have rescinded interviews after I tell them I have Cerebral Palsy.
I am 24-years old and have had one paid work experience, writing for a magazine. For me, disclosing my disability to potential employers has been a challenge. I know I am not required to. When I do so, they no longer want to interview me. Cerebral Palsy is an apparent physical disability, and I want potential employers to know this. I can’t hide my walker or power wheelchair.
I wouldn’t want to work for an employer who was hesitant regarding my disability. I would gladly help them understand my needs. The more my needs are met, the more successful I will be.
Disabilities shouldn’t prevent people from finding employment. Data shows that we are reliable, creative, and hardworking. Employers, however, won’t see that if they don’t hire us.
Sources:
Ceron, Ella. “Remote Work Helps Push Disabled Employment to a Record High of 21%. but the Gain Is Imperiled by Return to the Office Mandates.” Fortune, Fortune Media Group Holdings, 25 Feb. 2023, https://fortune.com/2023/02/24/remote-work-disabled-employment-record-high-remote-work-office-mandates/.
Williams, Angela. “It’s Time to End Employment Discrimination for People with Disabilities.” The Hill, The Hill, 19 Oct. 2020, thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/labor/521631-its-time-to-end-employment-discrimination-for-people-with.