People with disabilities can be discriminated against
Discrimination still occurs. This can mean that people with disabilities may not get jobs despite being qualified or may lose jobs. It can also mean that they are misunderstood, treated differently, left out, or passed over for promotions/raises.
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The Argument
Unfortunately, legal protection does not mean that discrimination no longer occurs. Bosses and colleagues can discriminate against people with disabilities. In the extreme, this can mean not getting jobs despite being qualified or the loss of a job. This discrimination isn’t legal, but employers can look for different justification to fire the person to avoid the appearance of discrimination.[1]
There are also many other ways discrimination can be seen. People may not understand your illness and may make assumptions about you because of these preconceived ideas, especially with mental illnesses.[2] This can result in negative peer relationships, being left out, being treated differently, and/or being overlooked for groups.[3]
Additionally, anything that goes wrong may be blamed on the person’s disability.[1] It can also result in people being passed over for promotions or denied raises. A big disadvantage of disclosing your disability is that you could be discriminated against.
Counter arguments
There are ways to protect yourself from discrimination. First, to avoid stereotypes or stigmas, people should not disclose their specific diagnosis.[4] Second, it is smart to research the company before disclosing to see if they mention diversity, have been involved in disability-related organizations, have other employees with disabilities, and/or have a flexible or accepting culture. Finally, people with disabilities need to know their rights. They can even work with the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) or with vocational rehabilitation services to help mediate.
Proponents
Premises
[P1] People with disabilities may not get jobs despite being qualified or may lose jobs.
[P2] Bosses or colleagues may make assumptions about you because of their preconceived ideas about your disability.
[P3] People with disabilities can be treated differently, left out, or passed over for promotions/raises.
Rejecting the premises
[Rejecting P2] Stereotypes or stigmas can be avoided if people don’t disclose their specific diagnosis.
References
- https://iancommunity.org/tell-or-not-tell-disclosing-disability-workplace
- https://www.disabledperson.com/blog/posts/how-should-i-answer-the-disability-question-on-job-applications-in-2019-your-disclosure-questions-answered
- https://parentnetworkwny.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/PreparingYourChildYoungAdultForWork-PN_FactSheet32917.pdf
- https://abilityjobs.com/should-i-or-shouldnt-i/