People with disabilities are often discriminated against by society. People have faced prejudice and unjust treatment for a long time, but recent laws have taken concrete steps to prevent them from this terrible discrimination. Disability is often perceived as a hindrance or a lack, but people forget to acknowledge the fact that differently-abled people need not be inept in all spheres. Just like regular people, they also have strengths and weaknesses. And it is society's responsibility to ensure they embrace their strength and live a decent and dignified life.
Laws allow disabled people to get just treatment in all segments of social life. North Carolina strictly follows the US laws regarding disability to ensure everyone gets what is due to them. The United States has several laws concerning people with disabilities. Each of these laws is carved considering the rights and dignity of such people.
However, making laws is not enough. You must know them well to protect your rights and that of your loved ones. If you are not aware of these laws, here's your chance. This article aims to educate you about North Carolina's laws for its disabled citizens.
Civil Rights Act 1964
Discrimination is perhaps the most common barriers to disability inclusion. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 has a salient feature that disallows discrimination based on caste, creed, disability, and sex. Several places, to this date, discriminate against people with disabilities. In such cases, you must confront the authority and remind them of your constitutional rights.
Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Prejudice against people with disabilities is most common when applying for any professional position. People, who would otherwise fit a certain job profile or any kind of program, are sometimes rejected solely due to their disability. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (post its amendment) puts a check on discrimination of disabled people in programs the federal agencies conduct. Any program that receives grants from federal agencies cannot discriminate against a candidate based on his disability. It ensures everyone gets opportunities only on the basis of their merit.
Section 504
Section 504 of this act prohibits employers and organizations from denying rights and opportunities to people with disabilities. It gives them all the right to participate in any benefits and services the state and private companies offer.
Nowadays, it is easy for any handicapped person to reach their office and other places using any handicapped transportation service. All you have to do is arrange one and never face difficulty reaching your workplace. Therefore, it is baseless to discriminate against candidates on their physical disability.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Getting the right education is indispensable if people with disabilities want to compete with everybody worldwide. Giving them the most suitable education is thus of paramount significance. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act promotes special education to equip differently-abled students to use their strengths best.
Children with disabilities may face problems when taught with a class of regular students. They may need special attention, equipment, and a different module to grasp their lessons better. Making such schools and classrooms paves the way for a better life where they can fairly compete for programs, jobs, and other opportunities.
If your child requires special attention, enrolling them in a special school instead of a regular one is best. Giving them the best education is among your duties towards your disabled child. So never flinch about enrolling them in a special school. North Carolina has several programs that are tailor-made for your child.
The Constitution of the United States has carefully drawn each law in the best interests of people with disabilities. North Carolina has a strict check on these laws and punishes offenders accordingly. However, no matter what the state and the country do, we must be aware of our rights and the opportunities we can use to make life better for ourselves and the people around us. Besides the government's efforts, you must also look for services and programs that will help you. For instance, NEMT services work great for people with disabilities as they can travel safely from one place to another without assistance from friends or family. NEMT vans can help you fulfill different kinds of medical appointments and even accompany you to trips, functions, and parties. Instead of only focusing on your weakness, be aware of the privileges, rights, and opportunities you can grab. As they say, nothing is impossible.
