Productivity Reimagined

11Rethinking the Meaning of Disability

One of the most unfortunate aspects of command-and-control management is that it often judges people based on how they fit into the org chart and not on their capabilities. This is particularly difficult for people with disabilities, and it also deprives companies of the proven advantages that come from a diverse workforce.

There are two myths at play here – the Myth of Segmented Success, which sees people as interchangeable components, and the Top-Down Knowledge Myth, which tends to reinforce stereotypes about people with disabilities. In this chapter, we’ll show how leaders are countering these myths and demonstrating the unique contributions that people with diverse abilities can offer.

IT BEGINS WITH THE CHILDREN

Northwest Center, based in the Seattle area, is all about changing attitudes. Founded by a group of Seattle moms in 1965, the center works to remove barriers that people with disabilities encounter at school and at work.

Northwest Center began as a traditional charity that advocated for children who, on account of their disabilities, were denied access to education. As the center grew, it opened a school for children who couldn’t find placement elsewhere. The parents led the fight for the first state law to grant access to public education to people with disabilities and paved the way for the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The Center also drew support from the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department. ...