TALKS

Many people think having a “disability” means you require a wheelchair or walker. But roughly 10 percent of the approximately 61 million adults in the US who have some form of disability suffer from “invisible” disabilities such as chronic pain and illness, genetic disorders, diabetes, or fibromyalgia. They often encounter judgement, anger, and aggression from strangers who presume they are misusing resources meant for the “visibly disabled.” Likewise, by routinely targeting people with disabilities with “one size fits all” policies and marketing campaigns, corporations are excluding, stereotyping, or misrepresenting what living with disability really looks like.

As an entrepreneur and disability advocate, Lainie Ishbia believes broadening our understanding of disability isn’t just a moral and ethical imperative — it’s also good business. People with disabilities are the largest and fastest growing minority in the world. By breaking down barriers and providing job accommodations, employers can expand opportunities within the workforce. By designing products, services, and content that meet the needs of all people, companies actually end up making better products and services for everyone. Acknowledging the presence and validity of invisible disabilities is a key component of creating a more equitable society for all.