This presentation explains why many workplaces are inequitable by design: systems often center the employer over the person employed, using standardization, exclusionary rules, and punishment over education. We connect this to a longer history of labor exploitation (from early wealth concentration to industrial capitalism) and show how it still exists today—including examples like subminimum wages for people with disabilities under Section 14(c).
We then offer a person-centered employment model: language that centers the person (person employed / worker), accommodations as a right (not a favor), standards that must be reasonable and targeted, and comfort and accessibility over appearance.
We close with a clear call to action—be an assertive person employed, be a mindful employer, and advocate for equitable structures that treat people as people, not tools for profit.
- Why workplaces become inequitable (standardization + punishment culture)
- Person-centered employment lens (people aren’t tools)
- Disability rights and structural harms (incl. 14(c) context)
- Reasonable accommodations as a right
- Neuroinclusive practices that increase productivity
- Building humane standards + feedback culture
- Actions for employers/HR/managers
- Actions for “people employed” (self-advocacy and boundaries)
- Employers and leadership teams
- HR/People Ops and DEI professionals
- Managers and supervisors
- Service providers supporting employment
- Employee groups/affinity groups
- Anyone seeking practical workplace inclusion that increases equity and productivity
- Workplaces
- schools
- community organizations
- Format: Presentation / Training
- Length: 45-60 minutes
All AOG presentations are offered free of charge. Organizations that can afford it are encouraged to make a donation to support our community-led work. To schedule: info@autismonthego.org
