To the Editor:
After spending several days in Washington, D.C., with disability service providers from across the country, I came home with one overwhelming thought: now is the time for Massachusetts to stand up for people with disabilities.
The policy changes and proposed cuts coming out of Washington have created uncertainty and concern for individuals with disabilities and their families. But here in Massachusetts, we have an opportunity to send a different message—one that says we value inclusion, opportunity, and the contributions of every resident.
For the tenth consecutive year, legislation designed to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities through state contracting remains stalled in the House and Senate Ways and Means Committees. For a decade, advocates, families, and providers have made the case that people with disabilities deserve meaningful career opportunities and a fair chance to contribute their talents.
Yet we are still waiting for action.
One of the objections we’ve heard is that the business community does not like mandates. That’s an interesting argument. Employers already comply with countless requirements that advance public priorities. Somehow, mandates are acceptable when they serve other goals but become controversial when they involve hiring individuals with disabilities.
Let’s be clear: this is not about charity. It is not about lowering standards. It is about recognizing the value, skills, and potential of people who have too often been excluded from opportunities available to others.
Massachusetts has long been a leader in innovation, civil rights, and social progress. At a time when disability services and supports are under threat nationally, we have the chance to lead again.
The Legislature should pass this bill and show the nation that Massachusetts truly includes everyone. After ten years of waiting, individuals with disabilities deserve more than promises—they deserve action.
The time is now. Massachusetts must lead.
-Andrea Cook
V.P. of Communications and Community Relations
WORK Inc., Dorchester
