While our worth is never defined by our productivity, having the opportunity to work is a privilege—one that not everyone has access to.
Yesterday, in observance of Memorial Day, my autistic brother Tommy’s workplace was closed. Like many times before, we had to revisit the same conversation—reassuring him it was a holiday and he’d return to work the next day.
Tommy takes immense pride in his job. His enthusiasm, consistency, and sense of purpose are unlike anything I’ve seen. He wants to contribute. He loves using his skills. And he thrives when given the chance to do meaningful work.
That’s not something to overlook—that’s something to build around.
The unfortunate reality is that many neurodivergent individuals are still waiting for a chance. Waiting for inclusive hiring practices. Waiting for environments where they can be supported, valued, and celebrated.
Tommy is a reminder of what’s possible when inclusion is more than a buzzword—it’s a commitment. A workplace that sees potential, not limitations. A team that provides support, not obstacles.
Here’s to continuing the work of building inclusive pathways to employment, and hiring employees as dedicated and capable as Tom.
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