The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) was passed on July 26, 1990. It is one of the U.S.’s most comprehensive acts relating to civil rights, and it seeks to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities. It is also designed to ensure that those facing such challenges are given equal opportunities to take advantage of mainstream life in America, including taking part in federal, state, local, and private programs and services.
The ADA is based on the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which bans discrimination against color, gender, race, religion, and issues of national origin.
The problems that face the U.S.’s Deaf and hard-of-hearing workforce
Despite the existence of the ADA, the gap in employment that exists between Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the U.S. remains a serious area of concern. In a survey back in 2017, only 53.3% of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people were employed, as opposed to 75.8% of their hearing peers. This represents a gap in employment of 22.5%.
The need to further reduce discrimination in America’s places of work
It is all too obvious that regardless of the improvements that have been made since the introduction of the ADA, discrimination still remains widespread in the workplace. It should be a major concern for forward-looking businesses that are seeking to widen their client bases and find new customers.
Organizations like the ” National Association for the Deaf (NAD),” have done stellar work and continue to do so. However, it is still not enough, which is why ICS – (Inclusive Communications Services Inc) has emerged.
How ICS can help
Although many businesses and organizations are aware of ADA and the problems that the Deaf and hard-of-hearing face, they have not felt they can do much about it. We here at ICS are in the business of empowering such businesses to make a difference.
ICS provides Sign Language interpreters and transcription services to the private and public sectors in and around NYC. Our aim is to expand inclusion in the communities we serve by educating local businesses and organizations on the importance of equal-access and how to become Deaf-friendly.
Become a socially responsible brand and gain new business
By making your organization Deaf-friendly, you can become a socially responsible brand. In addition to being compliant with the ADA, this recognition provides the opportunity to widen your area of operations and attract new clients.
The current COVID-19 pandemic is likely to increase the employment gap between the hearing and the Deaf community. But it also brings with it serious concerns for those already in employment. Even something that may appear seemingly innocuous to many people – like the need to wear face masks – a subject discussed in our previous blog about PPE – must be properly addressed.
How ICS’s ASL interpreters for businesses can make a difference
Lip reading is not possible when masks cover mouths, and it also makes reading facial expressions almost impossible.
If you are concerned about the potential language constraints associated with any upcoming meetings, presentations, or shows, hiring the services of an ICS trained, experienced ASL translator can dispel any fears, ensuring that the messages are understood by everyone.
If you would like to know more about ICS and how we can help you, your staff, and your clients to collaborate and communicate more effectively, please schedule a free consultation, or call us at (347) 927-5770