My thoughts

by Sue
(U.S.A.)

I have such mixed feelings on this subject. I do feel that instead of us focusing on a small few who may be abusing the system, let's focus on educating employers about hiring people with disabilities. There is far too much discrimination out there. I am very fortunate to have found an understanding employer who did hire me. I have experienced discrimination when looking for a job and discrimination on the job. I have had employers basically tell me no I could not apply for the job because it required use of the phone. I have been denied an interpreter on the job. I have been asked "how much can you hear?" on the interview. At most companies, the majority of employees are nondisabled. The unemployment rate of people with disabilities is very high, unfortunately.

SSI is necessary. I am sure there are plenty of people with disabilities who really do want to work and would rather not be collecting SSI. These people need to be given a fair chance.