October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In a rough and tumble political season, it seems possible that most people – regardless of party preference – agree that Americans with disabilities “have the same rights and freedoms as any other citizen.” Those are the words of President Obama in his recently issued proclamation that October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

The president said that too often in U.S. history, people with disabilities have wanted to work, but were not offered jobs, or they faced discrimination in the workplace. But he notes that significant progress has been made and that with ongoing effort, more employees will be accepted for who they are and that no one will be “unable to pursue their dreams because of a disability.” 

Obama also notes that despite the progress made since Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, “we still have far to go to raise awareness” of the types of discrimination that employees with disabilities still must overcome in the workplace.

People with disabilities can still face unlawful discrimination in matters involving the following:

  • Hiring
  • Pay and benefits
  • Training
  • Promotions
  • Firing

If you have a disability and have been denied a job, a raise or a promotion as a result – or you were let go by your employer because of your disability – you might feel as if you have nowhere to turn. Here in Milwaukee, you can speak with an attorney experienced in defending workers’ rights, however.

You can schedule an appointment for a confidential conversation with a skilled lawyer at the employment law firm of Alan C. Olson & Associates, s.c.

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