On Jan. 01, 2010 I had a commentary in the Winnipeg Sun called, If only we'd get hired. I would like to re-visit that topic. It always disgusts me whenever somebody says that the poor or people living with a disability are lazy and don't want to work. Over 21 years experience as an advocate and frontline worker tell me this just isn't true . . . People really do want to work!!!I am a person who has a disability and happens to be poor. But I am not without any gifts or talents. For the last 8 years, I have been a strong advocate for persons with disabilities and those who live in poverty. I have excellent oral and written skills too! Over the last four and a half years I've written well over 100 letters, op-ed. pieces and commentaries in both our local newspapers (Winnipeg Free Press and Winnipeg Sun).
In December 2011, I just happened to come across an advertisement in our local community newspaper called The Lance. The newspaper was looking for people interested in becoming "community correspondents."
I thought that I'd apply for the position in St. Vital. I am well-connected to my community as well as the surrounding areas. And besides, I love to write. On Tues., Dec. 13, 2011 I posted a tweet stating that I applied for the position. Within 10 minutes I received a reply from The Lance saying they "tentatively had someone in place for the St. Vital area," but would get back to me if the situation changed. That was 3 months ago. The ad has run non-stop since then. And guess what? According to the ad they are still looking for a community correspondent in St. Vital. I'm not Lying!
I am poor. I am disabled. I am also outspoken. Sometimes I may be a bit too outspoken for some people. Persons with disabilities (like me) really do want to work. But if employers like The Lance refuse to even give us a chance, then how will our situation ever change? I do have something to contribute to my community . . . whether The Lance believes it or not!
