Share on: Linkedin

NDEAM – Advancing Inclusive Employment


Published: Tuesday October 1, 2024
Screenshot

“Disabled employees can do any type of job. Even the jobs we have been historically counted out for.” Alycia Anderson

Waitress from my wheelchair, this was my first job out of high school. And I did it well. I could carry 15 margaritas on my lap and zip through that restaurant weaving through tables faster than most on the team.

I made great tips and I put my self through college doing so.

This story was actually my viral moment back in the 90’s. Which meant at the time it circulated in news papers / stories around the world. Pre-internet days!

Many thought I couldn’t do the job, but I did.

I refused to let society place limitations on the trajectory in my career due to bias or assumptions and unknowns about what they thought I could or couldn’t do.

Adaption, communication and open mindedness was key in our success.

The impact was profound—not just for me, but for the company I worked for and everyone I served who saw what was possible when given the chance.

October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)—a time to reflect on the contributions of disabled employees in the workforce and the value we bring to the economy.

Disability does not limit capability. Its the barriers that need to be addressed that have been blocking our pathway. The attitudinal, social, physical, policy and communication barriers that make it so much harder than it needs to be.

The theme for NDEAM 2024 is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” Let’s build a future where ability isn’t defined by assumptions, but by opportunity.

Leave a Reply