This an example of how difficult it is for people with invisible disabilities to receive accommodations that are rightfully theirs.

Last week in Mclean’s Magazine

It took months of mediation between a student with invisible disabilities, York University and the Ontario Human Rights Commission before accommodation was granted without having to reveal the diagnosis. Why? What difference did it make to the professors whether the student’s diagnosis was autistic spectrum, dyslexia or damage from a head injury? There was a legitimate medical request for accommodation due to disability, and now that’s all that is necessary, at least in universities.

Canaries seeking accommodation

Shouldn’t everyone with a disability requesting accommodation be granted the same respect for privacy? People with multiple chemical sensitivities have an invisible disability too. Unfortunately, revealing that diagnosis allows employers and supervisors to question its vadlidity, even when provided by an expert, and demand second opinions from medical experts of their own choosing. This happens all too often, leading to denial of accommodation, costly legal battles, and more disability. If you think that is ridiculous, welcome to the world of the canaries.