Glossary > Employment Law > Employment Discrimination > Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)

Disability Discrimination

Disability discrimination in employment law refers to unfair treatment of an employee or job applicant based on their disability. It is illegal to discriminate against individuals with disabilities in all aspects of employment, including hiring, firing, promotions, pay, and other job-related activities.

Example #1

An employer refuses to provide a reasonable accommodation, such as a modified work schedule, to a qualified employee with a disability.

Example #2

A job candidate with a visible disability is not hired despite being the most qualified applicant for the position.

Misuse

An example of disability discrimination misuse could be an employer refusing to hire a candidate with a disability due to outdated stereotypes or prejudices. This misuse is harmful as it denies qualified individuals opportunities based on their disability rather than their abilities and qualifications, leading to unfair treatment and limiting diversity in the workplace.

Benefits

By prohibiting disability discrimination, the ADA ensures that qualified individuals have equal opportunities in the workplace. For example, providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities can result in a more inclusive and diverse workforce, benefiting both employees and employers by harnessing a broader range of skills and perspectives.

Conclusion

Disability discrimination is a significant issue that undermines the principles of fairness and equal opportunities in the workplace. By understanding and enforcing laws like the ADA, we can promote a more equitable and inclusive work environment for individuals with disabilities.