CEDAR RAPIDS- 54 million Americans have disabilities.  That’s one in five people.  Advocates say each one faces a stigma in finding and holding a job.  That’s why one national figure stopped in Cedar Rapids Monday to urge employers to hire people with disabilities.

With an aging baby boomer generation, experts expect that number to rise.  But in the midst of a tough economy, it’s even harder for people with physical or developmental disabilities to find a job.  Disability rights leaders say simple misconceptions are hurting the nation’s economy. 

“I was born blind,” said US Assistant Secretary of Labor, Kathleen Martinez. 

And with that declaration came obstacles. 

“I was channeled into working in a lock factory as a punch-press operator.  I decided there was more for me in life and I left that job,” said Martinez. 

Now, as the U-S Assistant Secretary of Labor, Kathleen Martinez pushes for disability rights especially in the workplace.  Monday, Eastern Iowa leaders met to discuss how to do just that. 

“It’s the number on goal,” said Goodwill Industries Store Manager Luther Batte. 

Some places like Goodwill Industries use a hiring practice encouraging diversity especially for those with disabilities.  Store managers like Luther Batte work around an employee’s limitations to find their strengths.

“You might have someone that might not have the greatest speech, but they’re great with their hands.  You just find things they can do like with the clothing, sorting, tagging, hanging,” said Batte. 

But National Organization on Disability President Carol Glazer says most companies are not as open, especially in a struggling economy. 

“The people who are the last hired are the first people to go which unfortunately means people with disabilities,” said National Organization on Disability President Carol Glazer. 

Martinez says hiring that group is not only a social justice but an economic boost. 

“It takes us off the special shelf and weaves us into the fabric of the workplace culture,” said Martinez. 

Iowa Works leaders say people with disabilities should focus on their strengths when applying for a job.  There’s also help for employers looking to increase diversity in the workplace just click here.