Mass layoffs leave federal workers with disabilities in the lurch

Last updated: February 22, 2025 3:52 am

ANH Team

I couldn’t sleep, couldn’t eat. My husband tried to comfort me, but we were both devastated,” said Emily. “To have it happen on Valentine’s Day, a day that was supposed to be special for us, it just added insult to injury.”

Emily’s story is just one of many that highlight the devastating impact of the recent mass firings targeting federal employees, including those with disabilities. For many, federal employment was seen as a beacon of hope, providing stability and a sense of purpose. But with the recent terminations, that hope has been shattered, leaving many disabled workers feeling betrayed and uncertain about their future.

The Schedule A pathway, which was designed to help qualified candidates with disabilities navigate the federal hiring process, has now come under scrutiny. While it has helped many individuals secure jobs in the federal government, the recent terminations have raised questions about its future viability.

For Emily and others like her, the loss of their jobs has not only affected their financial stability but also their sense of identity and purpose. Many disabled workers have expressed feelings of betrayal and abandonment, questioning whether the federal government truly values their contributions.

As the dust settles and the reality of their termination sinks in, many disabled federal employees are left wondering what comes next. Some have vowed never to work for the federal government again, while others are left grappling with the uncertainty of their future job prospects.

As the disability community grapples with the aftermath of the mass firings, advocates are calling for greater protections and support for disabled workers. The recent events have highlighted the need for stronger safeguards to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not unfairly targeted or discriminated against in the workplace.

For Emily and others who have been affected by the recent terminations, the road ahead may be uncertain, but they remain resilient in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges they face, they are determined to persevere and continue fighting for their rights and the rights of all disabled workers.

As Emily sits in her hospital room, surrounded by uncertainty and fear, she clings to the hope that one day she will find a job that values her contributions and respects her identity as a person with a disability. Until then, she remains steadfast in her belief that she deserves better and that her voice deserves to be heard.

The recent mass firings of federal employees with disabilities have sent shockwaves through the Health and Human Services (HHS) department. Employees who had been recognized for exceptional performance were suddenly handed termination notices citing “performance issues.” This came as a devastating blow to many who had dedicated years to their work in agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

One such employee, a health communicator with a history of PTSD, had finally landed their dream job through Schedule A hiring. This program allows individuals with qualifying disabilities to secure federal positions with the support of a doctor’s note. For this employee, the job at the CDC was a beacon of hope in a dark time, offering a sense of purpose and fulfillment after years of struggle.

The loss of these federal roles not only deprives the government of valuable services but also leaves a vulnerable population of disabled workers with limited options. Federal courts have upheld the mass firings, leaving many terminated employees without a clear path to return to their jobs. This is especially challenging for individuals with disabilities who may have higher healthcare needs and face additional barriers in the job market.

The impact of these firings goes beyond just losing a job. For many disabled workers, there is a constant pressure to overperform and prove themselves in a society that often underestimates their abilities. The HHS employee, who is the primary breadwinner for their family and has a physical disability, shared the struggle of feeling like they have to work twice as hard to be seen as equal.

Despite the setbacks and challenges, the resilience of these employees shines through. They continue to fight for their rights and advocate for greater inclusivity and support for disabled workers in the workforce. The hope remains that one day, they will be able to return to the roles they loved and continue making a positive impact on the health and well-being of others.

The story of these terminated employees serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting the rights and opportunities of individuals with disabilities in the workplace. It is a call to action for organizations and policymakers to prioritize inclusivity, diversity, and support for all employees, regardless of their abilities.