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How working from home has helped people with disabilities

Posted at 11:26 AM, Jun 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-06-26 14:27:00-04

According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four U.S. adults – 61 million Americans – have a disability that impacts major life activities, including the workday commute. Prior to the pandemic, the disability community advocated to work from home, as a reasonable accommodation, and was often denied. Companies also experienced challenges implementing large-scale teleworking capabilities.

Since then, ongoing stay-at-home orders in many U.S. states and cities have normalized working from home and modified work schedules. Managers are seeing that being in the office is not the only path to collaboration and creativity. The new workplace environment is a ‘silver lining’ that may create employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law July 26, 1990. The 30th anniversary of the ADA celebrates progress in access and inclusion.
  • For decades, the disability rights movement has fought for equality and accessibility, and throughout history, people with disabilities have helped shape a universal future.
  • The No Barriers Summit, a two-day experiential event, seeks to empower people to break through barriers and provide connections to employment and financial health opportunities.