Craig Warren, a visually impaired music therapist, lost his job when his workplace upgraded its electronic medical records system, incompatible with his assistive technology. This experience reflects a broader issue where individuals with disabilities face significant barriers in employment, despite a record high in participation rates. In 2023, only 24% of persons with disabilities were employed, compared to 78% for those without. Advancements in technology, particularly post-COVID-19, have opened new avenues for accessibility, but employers must invest more in resources and training to harness this potential workforce effectively.
When Craig Warren graduated college, he wanted to be a music therapist to help people with the healing power of music. He got a job in a large mental health institution, where he led music, recreation and art sessions and took notes after each interaction. Born visually impaired, Warren uses a computer and a phone with a screen reader and braille display. One day the hospital switched its electronic medical record system to a program that was incompatible with his screen reader. Just like that, he was out of a job.
Though 2023 saw a record high share of people with disabilities in employment, their work participation rate was 24%, or less than a third of the 78% rate for people without disabilities. New technology and its rapid adoption for remote work during COVID-19 continues to break down many barriers for people with disabilities.
For example, voice recognition expands communication options for those who face challenges with traditional keyboards. Auto-captioning ensures that people who are deaf or experiencing hearing loss can fully engage with multimedia content.
Ability Central, a foundation I work for, has granted $15 million to California nonprofits that focus on communication disabilities and make skills and leadership development a major focus. One of the organization's investment highlights is a job readiness program by the Center for Independent Living in Berkeley.
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