As noted earlier, for people with disabilities, the biggest barrier is often the misconceptions held by others, including employers, regarding people with disabilities. Many employers lack disability awareness, have concerns regarding the costs of employing people with disabilities, and fear legal liability (Kaye et al., 2011).

Conversely, employers with experience employing persons with disabilities report favorable perceptions and indicate a willingness to hire workers with disabilities. Moreover, these employers demonstrate an interest in building a workforce that reflects their communities, thereby enhancing their business image in their communities (Unger, 2002).

To transform reluctant employers into those who welcome workers with disabilities, we must anticipate apprehensions based on misconceptions and educate where there is misunderstanding. Let's begin on the next page by learning more about disability awareness—or the lack thereof.