I recently starting watching the newest series on A&E called The Employables. It focuses on adults with disabilities who are looking for employment. From the first time I watched it, I loved the concept and the show itself. I admire how the show focuses on the reality of what it’s like to be an adult with a disability trying to find employment and the challenges that come with it.
The Employables is a groundbreaking show. We need more productions like this which focus on the truth about disabled people and what they face on an everyday basis. More networks should produce shows like this since it will combat the stigma and stereotypes surrounding people with disabilities in the workplace.
Here are five things that we can all learn from The Employables:
1. Everything in life is a process.
Each episode follows the story of someone new. My personal favorite tells the story of Victoria who is 25 years old and has autism. She tries to hide it from everyone around her. Moreover, the same episode also follows a 31-year-old Gabe. He has Tourette’s Syndrome and didn’t get a job simply because of that. Later on, both of the protagonists get a job. They also learn that everything takes time. The episode is fittingly titled “Don’t Judge A Book By Its Cover,” which could not be more profound.
2. Being disabled doesn’t mean you’re less determined.
Many people wrongly believe that an adult with a disability doesn’t aspire to be the best version of himself/herself. But the truth is that they are just as determined and full of potential. The show tackles this harmful stereotype in an educational way.
3. Their disabilities don’t stop them from enjoying what they love.
Throughout the series, we meet several people with disabilities such as autism or developmental disabilities. However, the show highlights the fact that all the people on the show have hobbies and things they enjoy. Their disabilities don’t define them.
For example, Victoria loves writing fan fiction and collecting Disney toys. She is a brilliant writer who develops her talents in spite of her disability.
4. People with disabilities can lead normal lives.
Throughout the series, we see multiple people with disabilities. We also learn about their process of adapting to life while trying to find a job. Watching the series teaches you that people with disabilities live productive lives. They’re just like everyone else. They have a great support system comprised of their friends and families. And that helps them greatly.
5. People with disabilities are far from weird.
The series teaches us that people with disabilities are not weird just because they do certain things that not everyone understands. For example, Gabe has tics because of his disability, but it doesn’t prevent him from being himself or being kind-hearted.
Throughout the show, we learn that people with disabilities aren’t weird. They’re simply different and that makes them wonderful. The show also tackles prejudicial stereotypes and stigmas, which can help improve the lives of people with disabilities. We need more shows like this one. We all benefit when we celebrate the strengths of each individual, no matter what.
Featured image via A&E
