Using Employment Data to Advocate for...

Escrito por:  Maria

Using Employment Data to Advocate for Change

Why Does Employment Matter?

Employment rates are often viewed as indicators of economic health. Nationally, high employment rates suggest a strong economy, which is why employment data frequently features in the news. On an individual level, having stable, meaningful work contributes to how many adults measure their self-worth and success. Additionally, employment supports positive outcomes, including community involvement, friendships, better health, and financial stability.

Current Employment Statistics in the U.S. (09/2024)

The U.S. unemployment rate currently stands at 4%, reflecting a high level of employment. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are 7.7 million open jobs and 7.1 million unemployed workers. This gap indicates a worker shortage, as there are more jobs than available workers to fill them. This shortage presents opportunities, especially for people with disabilities, highlighting the importance of focusing on their employment rates.

Employment Gap for People with Disabilities

Despite improvements in the employment rates of people with disabilities, a significant gap remains between those with and without disabilities, both in terms of job availability and wages. In 2021, the employment rate for people with disabilities in the U.S. reached 40% for the first time. However, this is still considerably lower than the approximately 80% employment rate for people without disabilities. Additionally, people with disabilities tend to earn less than their non-disabled peers, indicating a need for further progress.

Available Support Services for People with Disabilities

Various services and programmes support individuals with disabilities, including people with Down’s syndrome, in achieving meaningful employment. These services include post-secondary programmes and vocational rehabilitation services provided by specialised foundations and organisations. Such programmes help individuals with disabilities access jobs that match their skills and provide necessary workplace support.

Understanding Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE)

Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) refers to work that is performed on either a full-time or part-time basis, with pay at or above minimum wage comparable to wages of peers without disabilities. It also ensures equal access to benefits and provides an inclusive environment where employees with disabilities interact with non-disabled colleagues. CIE offers advancement opportunities similar to those available to employees without disabilities.

The Challenge of Underemployment for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Among the 18% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who hold paid jobs, about two-thirds are underemployed. They may earn below minimum wage or work in environments that lack integration with non-disabled individuals. Specifically, people with Down’s syndrome experience lower unemployment rates but face higher rates of underemployment, underscoring the importance of advocating for better job conditions and fair wages in integrated work settings.

This data underscores the ongoing challenges and opportunities in employment for people with disabilities in the U.S. and highlights the need for continued advocacy to close these gaps.