Embedding Disability Equity into Efforts to Advance Upward Mobility
This article emphasizes the need for local leaders to prioritize disability equity in advancing upward mobility, addressing systemic barriers that hinder disabled individuals' escape from poverty.
Authored by Alexis Weaver and Susan J. Popkin, the piece discusses how disabled individuals in the U.S.—constituting over 25% of adults—are disproportionately affected by poverty due to structural obstacles in housing, healthcare, education, employment, and the justice system.
The authors advocate for local leaders to embed disability equity into upward mobility efforts by:
- Respecting inherent dignity: Recognizing and valuing the contributions of disabled individuals within the community.
- Empowering autonomy: Ensuring disabled people have control over personal decisions and are included in policymaking processes.
- Providing financial resources: Addressing economic disparities by removing discriminatory practices, such as subminimum wage allowances, and supporting financial security initiatives.
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