This Month We Celebrated The ADA

Information from the ADA National Network states that The Americans with Disabilities Act was officially signed into law on July 26, 1990. This legislation was prompted during President George H.W Bush’s administration. This significant moment in history has been acknowledged to promote equality for people with disabilities. There is no form of equality without fairness towards everyone. Society must remember time and time again that everyone deserves to be treated with respect, even marginalized groups such as handicapped individuals.?

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, The Americans with Disabilities Act constitutes as federal law that does not allow any form of discrimination against people with disabilities. Several aspects of society that will not allow this public exclusion include transportation, public accommodations, access to state or local government programs, and communication, among other services. Also, Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act states that employers should treat workers fairly. Any employer, whether involved in private industries, federal occupations, labor unions, or elsewhere, are not permitted to discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities during all steps of the workforce process. Employers should make appropriate choices to help disabled staff members and bolster inclusive work environments. Again, equality is vital.

An archived article from 1992 entitled “The History of the Americans with Disabilities Act: A Movement Perspective”, acknowledges the impact of this landmark federal statute. Decades before 1990, millions of people with disabilities fought for their rights, but this legislation boils down basic freedoms that everyone should be aware of. The ADA was important in helping the country build a stronger workforce because inclusion aids society overall. For many years, people with disabilities have been ignored by marginalizing their abilities because of ongoing stigmas. Employment is also key to survival and all job seekers even with disabilities still deserve human decency. Federal laws such as this quite literally guarantee penalties for employers when these individuals have been discriminated against. The Americans with Disabilities Act finally acknowledged an overlooked part of the community and partly ensures that the disabled community will be heard, no matter the obstacle.

Platform Workforce acknowledges that hiring and retaining employees with disabilities “raises awareness of accessibility and inclusivity.” Also, recognizing people with disability in the workforce “further exemplifies a company’s dedication to serving and creating an equitable environment.” Diversity is essential within society and inclusion bolsters an otherwise ignored community.

Despite many hardships and obstacles that the disabled community faces, hope remains. Inclusion still matters to various companies as well. For example, according to the 101 Mobility platform, American technology company IBM emphasizes hiring as well as retaining employees with disabilities. This company also requires all employees to participate in disability awareness programs. Among other companies, food services business Sodexo provides disability awareness programs for employees. Sodexo also hires and retains employees with disabilities. Related SOAR program, which stands for “Sodexo Organization of disAbilities Resources,” aids the disabled community by providing much-needed employment opportunities. Small business owners are also beginning to open up hiring to those with disabilities.

In conclusion, job opportunities make a difference for everyone. The workforce determines livelihood for people around the world. People with disabilities deserve acknowledgment within society, regardless of hardship or stigmas. The American with Disabilities Act proves that this community should be acknowledged, and prejudices should never be allowed. Fairness improves society. We must remember that people with disabilities exist and learn to continue striving for equality. Again, people with disabilities deserve opportunities. Learning how to accept others regardless of difference will improve the workforce.?

By: Kia Lambright