Every October, the United States celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a campaign initiated by the U.S. Department of Labor in 1945. NDEAM aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the workplace, dispel misconceptions, and highlight the valuable contributions they bring to their companies.
According to the Department of Labor, over 18 million Americans with disabilities are employed full-time or part-time. Despite this, individuals with disabilities are less likely to be employed than those without disabilities, due to factors such as physical limitations and discrimination. NDEAM and organizations like Casmir Cares strive to educate the public and promote inclusivity in the workplace.
Understanding Disability
A recent study by NPR revealed that approximately 1 in 7 people worldwide has a disability. As the employment rate for individuals with disabilities continues to decline, it’s imperative to create more inclusive hiring practices. A disability, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), can be both physical or mental. Contrary to popular belief, disabilities are not always visible. Conditions such as diseases, deafness, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, blindness, intellectual disabilities, and loss of limbs qualify as disabilities.
Employers must be mindful of making pre-employment inquiries about a potential employee’s perceived disability. All applicants should be treated equally, and employers can only ask if applicants can perform the job with or without reasonable accommodations. Even after hiring, employers should avoid discriminatory questions and behaviors. Well-trained Human Resource departments can ensure compliance with disability laws and provide guidance to managers.
Employers Supporting Individuals with Disabilities
The most effective way to include employees with disabilities is to treat them like any other employee. Whether the disability is visible or not, avoiding assumptions and fostering an inclusive environment is crucial. The Department of Labor suggests implementing year-round strategies to advance disability inclusion, such as:
- Hosting educational lunch and learn sessions on disability issues
- Encouraging employee volunteerism with organizations that support individuals with disabilities
- Incorporating disability training into employee onboarding
- Offering American Sign Language classes to improve communication
Another strategy is to actively recruit applicants from organizations that assist individuals with disabilities in finding employment. Nonprofits like Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, The Arc, and Easterseals provide training and placement services. Websites like abilityJOBs, GettingHired, and Inclusive also list job openings from companies committed to inclusivity. Collaborating with these organizations can streamline the hiring process for employers seeking to become more inclusive.
Governor Shapiro has also proclaimed October as Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Casmir Cares: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities
Casmir Cares is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through vocational assessments, resume and interview preparation, job coaching, and travel training. Our job coaches work diligently to connect individuals with suitable employment opportunities in the local community.
Casmir Cares is also a member of the Philadelphia Employment Forum, a group committed to promoting employment for individuals with disabilities. By advocating for inclusive hiring practices and educating employers about the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities, we aim to influence policies and create a more equitable workplace.
To learn how Casmir Cares can help your business find qualified candidates, please contact us: www.casmircares.com