DiversityInc - October 2007

QWhat do you feel is the greatest issue confronting the disability community today?

Alan Muir: The lack of cohesiveness of the community to gain an equal footing in society. One of the causes is the medical profession segmenting the disability community by their diagnoses. A person who is blind has the perception his experience is different than a person who is a wheelchair user or who may have a behavioral health issue. They all experience discrimination, but it may manifest in different ways. The discrimination is based on the fact that anyone with a disability is different from what is considered “normal.”

Nancy J. Bloch: The biggest issue is attitude. Well-meaning individuals make assumptions about what people can or cannot do, or might act in paternalistic ways. Deaf people go to college, hold jobs, raise families and pursue interests—just like people who can hear.

Rene David Luna: Poverty and employment are major reasons why people with disabilities are segregated and dependent on “ special programs.” Greater employment opportunities would allow for significant change within the disability community.

Gary Arnold: Increased exposure in popular culture and media about people of short stature delivers the message that dwarfism is a natural part of human existence and that people of short stature are no different from others. Even so, in some cases, traditional stigma around dwarfism and difference continues to send the message that if you have dwarfism, there is

something wrong with you. Evidence of the stigma can be found in a recent survey of clinicians, many who reportedly would refuse to implant an embryo carrying the gene for dwarfism, even if requested by a prospective parent.

QWhat misconceptions do many companies have about dealing with customers with disabilities?

Arnold: There is often a disconnect between the disability community and the community at large. Many people don’t treat people with disabilities as if they are full participants and contributors. Rather, they are treated as a separate group with special needs. While people with disabilities may need accommodations, there is nothing special about the person or the accommodation that would prevent the person from making a significant contribution if given an equal opportunity.

Luna: Many businesses have fears about people with disabilities. Many believe reasonable accommodations might be too costly or that they might alter their business environment. They fear the cost of health insurance and other benefits. They also fear any liabilities due to any legal claims that might be brought against them. For the most part, these are unreasonable. The costs for accommodations are minimal and the environment is actually enhanced by the skills, talent and diversity of people with disabilities.

Susan Connors: If the disability is not visible, most people think it doesn’t exist. Brain injuries are hidden but they impact the way

information and emotions are processed. Responses can be slowed or can seem inappropriate to the current situation. Even if you don’t use a wheelchair, you may need extra time or special help.

Steve Bennett: Many companies
believe people with disabilities
can’t comprehend basic
information and are unable to
handle everyday situations and
interactions without assistance.
This is entirely untrue. Many
individuals with disabilities
are more than capable of
understanding basic and complex
information, are ambitious, and