Column: Queer + disabled = hireable?

I am known as the local lesbian with the “rainbow glasses” and have various chronic illnesses. I am also known as a reporter and a psychology major concentrating in clinical psychology and minoring in educational studies.

As such, I believe it is worthwhile to discuss the struggles of sexuality and disability, and how they affect one’s hiring status.

Queer and disabled folks are excluded from many places, and combined we become divided as a community.

When places are only made for abled people we wonder why no disabled people are around. 

One in three lesbians and one in three bisexual women report having a disability in a population-based survey in Washington. While LGBTQ+ spaces are hard to find, when you can find them they are often catered toward white gay men versus women of color (WOC).

In the work field, there are barriers abound in the queer and disabled community 

Mental and physical illnesses are often connected. Disabilities including chronic pain, fatigue and more mental illnesses can coexist. 

For instance, my migraines and brain fog will often make my suicidal ideation worse.

Accessibility is a big issue. Many within the queer and disabled community are not considered for “normal” jobs. 

Some people have resorted to illegal or stigmatized jobs because they just cannot make it on their own. An example of illegal professions includes prostitution. Many partake because they cannot make funds meet each month.

There are resources to help you out with becoming more hirable, such as Vocational Rehabilitation to work through your mental health, including Aiken-Barnwell-Mental Health.

The Trevor Project is a hotline dedicated to LGBT+ children at risk. Information pertaining to this hotline is available online.