The fact that we live in a time when the disabled are more accepted and less likely to live in institutions is a great thing. The problem though is society is not ready to give those with noticeable disabilities a chance to live free of assistance from government or outside agency.

Many of those looking to hire capable and qualified employees will more likely hire those that seem normal because they are looked at as being less of a risk than those with disabilities. The other thing is that disabled people are immediately identified as needing of assisted devices to meet the requirements of their job.

As a matter of fact though, not every disabled person is in need of any devices or equipment as we have learned to adapt to the environment around us. I say this as I am a disabled person that does most everything with one hand and no assistance of any sort. The fact is that I am writing this with my one good hand at at a speed of thirty plus words per minute. I grew up with computers most of my life and thus adapted well to the fact that my left hand must move fast back and forth from left to right to get things typed at a fast speed. I also know that I do type faster than my own husband who has u8se of two hands and is barely above the hunt and peck stage of typing.

I know I will never be a typist or secretary but that is why I got an advanced degree in hopes that my professional skills would be enough to get me a great paying job. When I did try and get a job though the first thing I was asked was if I ever used a voice-activated system for the computer? I told the interviewer that I never had and I felt that would get in my way because I type pretty fast with one hand and that would just slow me down. In my opinion, that was discrimination in the highest degree because even after describing my situation she would not get off the issue.

The one piece of advice I would give to that looking to hire any employee is not to assume anything. Disabled people will let you know if there is anything they need to do there job. If they say nothing it is best to keep your mouth shut and make no suggestions, as it is rather insulting to the disabled person. The other thing is that a normal' employee maybe more likely to need assistance or want it so why single out the disabled.

The fact is that whether the interviewee walks in on two feet no limp, on crutches, with a limp, in a wheelchair, with an assistance dog, or with a cane of any sort the reality remains that the are all people who believe they are qualified for the job. If, you the interviewer calls the person in because of what is on their resume show some respect and judge them on their abilities and accomplishments not on their physical limitations.

Learn more about this author, Melia Benjamin.
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