This presentation explores the systemic barriers to employment faced by ethnic minorities with intellectual disabilities and presents actionable solutions to foster equity and inclusion. This session, drawing on Critical Disability Theory and Anti-Colonialism Theory, offers a nuanced understanding of how ableism, racism, and colonial legacies intersect to marginalize individuals at the intersection of race and disability. Participants will gain insights from a comprehensive literature review highlighting current employment challenges, including hiring discrimination, cultural insensitivity, and lack of workplace accommodations.

Real-world examples and data will illustrate the far-reaching impact of these barriers on individuals, families, and communities, emphasizing the need for systemic change. The presentation will also propose multi-level solutions, including inclusive hiring practices, culturally competent employer training, and policy reforms to strengthen disability rights protections. Attendees will leave equipped with a framework for developing equitable workplace practices that prioritize diversity and cultural responsiveness and strategies for collaboration between policymakers, organizations, and community advocates. This session is designed for academics, practitioners, policymakers, and anyone committed to advancing social justice and workforce equity. By addressing these systemic barriers, we can create pathways to meaningful employment opportunities and promote the full participation of ethnic minorities with developmental disabilities in our society.