Before anyone asks what the hell incrementalism has to do with the constant slashing of disability services across the country, let me ask this community something: Have you ever actually USED those services? Do you have any idea how HARD it is to sign up for those services, let alone actually use them? Or better yet, do you think they actually make a meaningful impact on those with disabilities? If you answered yes to the third question, then you’re part of the problem.
Why do I say that? It’s quite simple, really. Too often we hear tone deaf responses to our issues such as: There are programs out there to help you, why not use them? That’s exactly the problem. We do use them, some of us for years. Even decades. And yet at the end of the day we still have next to nothing to show for it.
Sure, we could get help with education or vocational training, but that doesn’t mean our chances of getting or keeping a job will increase. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Those who work with disability services will understand what I’m talking about. Chances are if you’ve been through disability services you’ve had at least a few experiences with what’s called Supported Employment, where say, Vocational Rehabilitation will pay for training and wages for a few months with an employer who might be willing to give a person with disabilities a shot, and many times this would lead to them being hired.
As for me, I’ve had 2 experiences with Supported Employment and in both cases I wasn’t hired despite my supervisors being very happy with my work. This is probably more common than either employers or disability services will admit because let’s face it, employers just don’t want to deal with us. And most hiring managers, especially in the private sector don’t really give a shit how your disabilities impact your ability to work when profits are priority one.
Employment specialists can also accompany clients on interviews. Sounds good, right? Sure, but most interviewers will look at you and wonder why this other person is at your interview. In fact, using that service is more likely to prevent a disabled person from landing a job than getting the intended result. I had this happen several times when I had an E.S. accompany me to interviews I thought I did relatively well with, only to be passed over for someone that wouldn’t be a burden on them in their eyes.
This is the pattern we often have to deal with. We’re told we have so many services and programs at our disposal, yet we’re PUNISHED at every turn for actually using them. This has to change. Now. Because with the way the things we actually need constantly being slashed and burned by idiots who don’t have a clue, we just can’t afford to wait. If bold action isn’t taken soon, many will probably end up on the street or worse.
See you around,
Homer