Showcase

Finding and keeping a job can be especially challenging for people with disabilities due to discrimination, lack of support, and unfair workplace practices. These issues became even more noticeable during the COVID-19 pandemic. This project looks at how people with disabilities are treated in the workplace—especially in Indiana—and explores how we can make jobs fairer and more inclusive. The primary objective of this research was to examine how structural and social inequalities affect employment opportunities for people with disabilities. By analyzing data from recent sociological studies and policy reviews, the project aimed to identify the root causes of workplace exclusion and propose evidence-based solutions. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining secondary analysis of peer-reviewed sociological literature with a comparative review of state-level disability employment policies. Key themes included occupational segregation, the effectiveness of antidiscrimination legislation, and post-pandemic labor force participation among disabled populations. Findings reveal that despite legal protections like the Americans with Disabilities Act, many workers with disabilities continue to face hiring discrimination, limited access to accommodations, and lower wages. The project recommends strengthening federal and state-level enforcement of disability rights legislation, expanding remote work opportunities, and promoting inclusive hiring practices through employer training programs. These interventions not only foster equity but also contribute to more diverse, resilient workplaces.