To: STATE EDITORS

Contact: Shannon Powers of Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, +1-717-783-8266

Commission Celebrates Workers' Abilities during Disability Awareness Month; Announces Quarterly Stakeholder Meeting

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --In recognition of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Chairperson Stephen A. Glassman today reminded Pennsylvania employers that disability discrimination is illegal, encouraging them to focus on the talents and potential contributions of their workers and job applicants with disabilities.

"People with physical and mental disabilities make tremendous contributions to our economy and our communities every day, often overcoming tremendous obstacles to do so," Glassman, who is also vicechairperson of the Governor's Cabinet for People with Disabilities, said. "They may face greater challenges than their peers with different abilities, but we should not make assumptions about what anyone can or cannot do. Everyone deserves the chance to achieve his or her potential in an environment free of discrimination."

The Human Relations Commission enforces Pennsylvania's laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability and make accessibility on the job and in public places a right.

"Accessibility is not something that is to be arranged only when it's convenient," Glassman said. "It is the right of every Pennsylvanian, regardless of ability. Employers must make reasonable accommodations for their employees with disabilities, and owners of public places must offer access to their facilities and services."

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission also convenes the Disability Stakeholders' Taskforce, a partnership of public and private advocacy, service and other organizations who combine forces to address the needs of Pennsylvanians with disabilities and improve their quality of life.

The Disability Stakeholders' Task Force's quarterly meeting will be held from 8:50 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wed., Oct. 22, in the Human Relations Commission's Central Office at 301 Chestnut St., Suite 300 in Harrisburg. It will include presentations by the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The meeting is open to the public. Requests for disability accommodations can be made to Jim Holt at 717-783-8849 or jaholt@state.pa.us.

"Our economy needs the contributions of every Pennsylvanian, especially in these challenging times," Glassman said. "Our communities and our commonwealth are stronger when everyone has equal opportunities to participate. Let's join the nation in celebrating 'America's People, America's Talent...America's Strength,' this month and every month."

EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information on the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, Pennsylvania's anti-discrimination laws, or to find out where and how to file a discrimination complaint, visit www.phrc.state.pa.us.

CONTACT: Shannon Powers

(717) 783-8266

SOURCE Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission

-0-

• Email Story
• IM Story
• Printable View
• Yahoo! Buzz

Politics News

• Stakes high as Obama, McCain head for final debateAP
• In blue Vermont and red Utah, a quiet campaignAP
• Tale of 2 statesAP
• Obama, Jackson disavow column about IsraelAP
• McCain camp: 'We lost the spin war'Politico

Most Viewed - Politics

• Fla. Congressman said to be involved in 2nd affairAP
• White House pours cold water on Democrats' stimulusReuters
• Cheney experiences abnormal heart rhythmAP
• Stakes high as Obama, McCain head for final debateAP
• McCain, advisers divided over Wright attackPolitico

  Add comment

Name:
E-Mail:
Comment:
Enter code: