People with disabilities are key to our workforce strength

OPINION – It’s no secret that the economy was a top concern for voters this election season. As the nation, and California in particular, continues to bolster our position in the global marketplace, we must recognize a vital population that will help get us there: people with disabilities. Their contributions to California’s economy alone have been crucial to our ethos and footing, yet they continue to be left out of the conversation and face systemic barriers in the workforce.

At PRIDE Industries, we were proud to see Gov. Newsom proclaim October as Disability Employment Awareness Month and believe this is an opportune time to bring into focus the role people with disabilities play in the workforce and in the overall economy. Noting that California is home to more than 7 million adults with disabilities, the governor gave a highly significant nod acknowledging “the important role they play in our prosperity and vibrancy.”

But this recognition needs to go beyond proclamations. Decisionmakers and society at large need to adopt this same position of support and acknowledgement, which will help facilitate an expansion of workplace opportunities for those with disabilities.

Many people have succeeded in their chosen path despite intellectual, mental or physical disabilities. Former California Congressman Tony Coelho, who has lived with epilepsy since age 16 has experienced firsthand the obstacles and stigma of having a disability. In fact, his own experience compelled him to author the Americans with Disabilities Act. President Biden navigated his whole public life as a person who stutters. California’s own governor speaks openly about his battle with dyslexia.

Yet the most inspiring stories come from those who are not in the public eye. These are people whose dignity, self-worth and independence hinge on having a good job and contributing to society. Supporting their path to employment is also about providing a sense of belonging, training and opportunity to enable them to succeed. People with disabilities employed by PRIDE Industries cover a wide range of disabilities. We are a recognized employer of service-disabled veterans, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, former foster youth, and many others who need support services that are designed with them in mind.

Programs to support these individuals are working. For example, through its Youth Employment Services (YES!) program, PRIDE Industries offers customized training and pre-employment services, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from underserved communities, have the resources they need to succeed in the workforce. These inclusionary efforts are also demonstrated in work with federal and state agencies and private-sector companies where people with disabilities thrive in a work environment that is tailored for their success.

Despite thousands of employment successes resulting in greater self-sufficiency and independence for people with disabilities, these roles face increasing challenges that jeopardize their stability. It is essential to highlight the human impact of these jobs and emphasize the importance of ensuring that these individuals continue to have the opportunity for job security and growth. The commitment to support their independence through meaningful employment should not be taken for granted, especially in recognition of a job well done.

At PRIDE, our high retention rate and stellar record of service exists due to the diligence of this particularly well-trained and capable workforce. And above all, those we serve are empowered to achieve their employment goals and live more independently. It is why we exist.

California can continue to lead the way. As our state seeks to fund and implement policies that reflect our shared values and drive economic growth, we must prioritize initiatives that create career pathways, protect workers’ rights, and enhance cultural competency in workplaces for this community.

This social enterprise provider network is ready and capable of helping the State achieve the ideals of Governor Newsom’s proclamation. In a competitive economy, it is essential that policymakers and on-the-ground organizations work together to create lasting opportunities and drive meaningful impact for this invaluable community.

Jeff Dern is president and chief executive officer for PRIDE Industries, the nation’s leading employer of people with disabilities, providing employment to 2,000 people with disabilities and providing vital services to over 4,800 individuals.