By: Renée M. Dain, Senior Vice President, Communications and External Affairs
Navigating the workplace with a disability can feel overwhelming but it does not have to be. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is here to protect your rights, support your choices, and ensure you have the tools you need to thrive at work. Whether you are job hunting or already employed, understanding your rights under the ADA is a game-changer.
Do I have to tell my employer about my disability?
Nope! Disclosure is completely voluntary. You are never required to share your disability unless you are requesting a reasonable accommodation. If you do choose to disclose, it is your right to decide when, how, and to whom. The ADA protects you from discrimination whether you disclose or not.
Tip: If you need an accommodation, it is best to disclose to Human Resources (HR) or a supervisor who can help initiate the process.
What are my rights under the ADA?
Under Title I of the ADA, employers cannot discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities. That means you are entitled to equal opportunities in hiring, advancement, and workplace participation. You also have the right to reasonable accommodations, adjustments that help you perform your job effectively.
Examples include:
- Modified work schedules
- Assistive technology
- Physical workspace changes
- Remote work options
How do I ask for accommodations, and what if my request is denied?
Start by identifying what you need and why. Then, submit a written request to HR or your manager. Include any documentation that supports your request (like a doctor’s note). Be clear, respectful, and open to dialogue.
If your employer claims “undue hardship,” meaning the accommodation is too costly or disruptive they must explain why. You can challenge this or seek support from advocacy groups or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Tip: Most accommodations are low-cost and easy to implement. Do not hesitate to ask for what you need.
The ADA is more than a law, it’s a promise of fairness, dignity, and opportunity. Whether you are navigating disclosure, requesting accommodations, or facing challenges, you are not alone. Know your rights, speak up, and lean on the resources available to you.
Need More Support?
Join us for our October Community Enrichment Series: Know Your Workplace Rights on Tuesday, October 28th from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. with Douglas Allers, Disability Services Navigator for the Anne Arundel Workforce Development Center (AAWDC) provides employees with disabilities the knowledge and tools to understand their workplace rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:
- Understand Disability Disclosure
- Identify Workplace Rights Under the ADA
- Request and Implement Accommodations
- Recognize and Respond to Discrimination and Harassment
- Access Resources and Support
Click HERE to register.
