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As a consequence of the coronavirus pandemic, I have attended more webinars in 2020 compared to previous years. I consider the increased webinar attendance worthwhile because I learn valuable information. Since this is my final employment-themed blog post for National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2020, I am sharing one of webinars on my blog. In this article, I will summarize the webinar “Moving The Needle on Disability Employment”.
This webinar was held virtually on September 15, 2020, hosted by the
The presenters were from
which makes the
possible. Feel free to access the
page which includes links to the recording and downloadable presentation materials. My summary here provides an overview of the webinar’s content.
Although the webinar begins with a number of negative statistics, I find it beneficial to focus on positive facts. When someone with a disability is employed, inclusion and integration are crucial. A presenter stated that attitudes are the most difficult thing to change. This can be achieved through modeling correct behavior. A job should be integrated, competitive and provide opportunities for advancement. High expectations for all people with disabilities are very important. I encourage readers to access the archive and/or access presentation materials to learn more. I end this article with my reflections on the webinar’s content.
As the webinar points out, The number of Americans with disabilities who are unemployed has remained constant over a period of years. However, when people with disabilities are accepted for who they are by an employer and a positive work environment exists, the person with disability has the potential to thrive. I am an example of the positive outcome achieved when integration, positivity and acceptance are present in an employer’s company culture. My advice to everyone is remain positive about people with disabilities, be flexible when necessary and continue to gain knowledge through learning.
Question for readers: what advice do you have for people with disabilities to thrive who may be looking for work or already employed? I will return next week with another article.
Blake's talk 