Go beyond ADA compliance

I am a wheelchair user, employed full time, and want to comment on the February article regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act ("Advocates for the Disabled Seek Overhaul of ADA").

I agree with the points raised by the National Council on Disability and some attorneys cited in the article. All too often, the individual--rather than a pattern of discrimination--is subjected to scrutiny during litigation.

I urge employers to look at the issue differently. They have the opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the marketplace and diversify their workforces by hiring qualified employees with disabilities. Many firms are more concerned about compliance when hiring people with disabilities than strategically including another perspective into an effective mix of individuals. We must strive to attain a point beyond ADA compliance to that of true inclusion.

Keith Williams

Clark's Green, Pa.

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