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The best solution to the workplace struggles of those living with a disability is choosing an employer that genuinely cares about employees’ mental and physical health. In addition, you can take a few other actions to ensure you’re advocating for yourself in the workplace.
Understand the Rights You Have and What You Can Expect From Employers
One of the smartest things you can do is educate yourself on your rights, and to know what your employers must do once you disclose your vision-based disability. That way, you can confidently stand up for yourself and demand the support you’re entitled to from your employer.
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protect those living with a disability from employment discrimination. Individuals living with a disability can also lean on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to enforce these laws.
Employers are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations for those living with a disability. For example, if you’re struggling with blurred vision and need a screen reader, they must provide it. If you’re fully blind and need braille to communicate, employers must meet this need.
Employers should also provide adequate insurance to ensure you can get the support for your eye health, including regular vision appointments, glasses, even laser eye surgery. If your employer isn’t offering health insurance that covers your vision-based disability needs, it may not be the right fit.
You have rights and laws that protect you in employment. Understand them and what your employers are required to do to support you.
Be Transparent About Your Needs
There are certain things you need to navigate your visual impairment successfully. That’s just the way it is. You must ensure you have these things in the workplace to perform your job duties adequately.
Your employer will only know what you need if you’re transparent with them about it. So don’t be afraid to disclose the accommodations you need for your visual impairment immediately. Share them on the application, in the interview, and throughout your time with your employer as your needs evolve.
It’s also essential to speak up when something isn’t right. If you ever feel like your requests are being ignored or you are experiencing disability discrimination, be honest with your manager about it. If they aren’t receptive after a few conversations, escalate your complaint.
Start an Employee Resource Group
“Employee Resource Groups are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the organizations they serve,” according to Great Place to Work.
You can start an employee resource group for individuals in your workplace living with a vision-based disability. You can all talk about your concerns and develop solutions to improve the office environment. Create proposals to present to your employers for additional support.
You could also coordinate events that bring awareness to visual impairments. And you can use some of these events to raise money for technology and other resources that make your workplace more accessible.
Conclusion
Advocating for yourself and others living with a visual impairment in the workplace is essential. Everyone deserves to work in a supportive environment, regardless of ability, experience, or background. Be a part of the movement that ensures this happens.
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