Association of California State Employees with Disabilities

The Association of California State Employees with Disabilities (ACSED) is a nonprofit membership organization that focuses on promoting equality, equity, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities employed by or seeking employment with the state of California. The organization is governed by its members and an elected board of Directors.

Mission

ACSED's mission is encapsulated in the phrase "Action and Equity for Employees with Disabilities." The organization aims to address systemic barriers that affect the hiring, promotion, retention, and fair treatment of persons with disabilities (PWDs) within California's state government. It strives to enhance awareness, improve accessibility, and encourage acceptance of PWDs as valuable resources in the workforce. Ultimately, ACSED seeks to make California's government a model employer for individuals with disabilities.

Activities

ACSED engages in advocacy and awareness-raising activities to advance its mission. It collaborates with state agencies to address issues faced by employees with disabilities and promotes strategies for better inclusion within the public sector. By working closely with other disability-focused organizations and state entities, ACSED pushes for policy improvements and better implementation of existing laws and initiatives aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Challenges and Partnerships

Despite the efforts of organizations like ACSED, California has faced challenges in maintaining a high level of employment for individuals with disabilities within the state government. The employment rate of disabled workers in California's state government has declined significantly over recent years, prompting calls for stronger leadership from state officials to address these trends. ACSED works alongside other advocacy groups, such as Disability Rights California, to press for improvements in state employment policies and practices related to disability inclusion.

Membership and Support

ACSED invites membership from current and retired state employees, as well as anyone supportive of its mission. Through collective action and engagement, the organization seeks to amplify the voices and concerns of employees with disabilities, fostering an environment that values diversity and inclusivity in the California state workforce.