To those who know me, I’m a college student, a full time worker and an enduring optimist. I work hard and am known for giving my all to help those around me. People tell me I can be anything I want to be, until I tell them I am disabled. I don’t look it, but every day I face the struggles the symptoms of my disabilities bring into my life.

   In May of 2018, I rescued a happy, young dog from a local humane society. I had no idea at the time that that dog would someday rescue me. I am so lucky because on that day I found my amazing lifeline, my service dog. She has given me back my independence and the confidence that I can safely go into public places as long as I have her by my side. Her training took time, almost two years, but in that time we grew inseparable and I know that she is able to aid me in ways neither I, nor anyone else, is capable of. 

   However, even with her by my side, being in public places poses a hidden danger. Many people inappropriately bring their pets with them into stores and restaurants where pets are not allowed. Some don’t cause too much issue, but most bark, growl and lunge at us. Though I have attempted to address this issue directly with managers when my service dog and I have been attacked in stores, businesses either do not understand or have no care for the damage they do to the rights of disabled patrons by allowing this behavior. 

   Due to this wonderful gift, my service dog and lifeline, I am discriminated against daily. Sometimes it’s in small ways, like snide comments from the public or employees, sometimes it’s in big ways such as barring our access entirely. Even now, I am struggling with employers both past and present for recognition of my right to have my to have my service animal present with me at work. My disabilities don’t stop affecting me simply because I am working and, due to this and their unwillingness to accommodate a disabled employee, I have been forced to either endure medical issues at work or, when they become unbearable, to leave. 

   Unfortunately, my story is not dissimilar from many of the service animal handlers I know. We work through the blood sweat and tears to have these amazing dogs by our sides, only for the public and employers to take away the security of our lifelines. What good is it to have this gift if they must remain home for their own safety or their presence is not allowed because of the “hassle” it would cause? Service animal handlers are at risk and underrepresented. Our rights are compromised daily when businesses and employers do not adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act, or further, take advantage of the grey area and operate between the lines. In allowing this, the government is willfully compromising our safety. 

   I ask you today, do not let this stand. By adding your signature to this petition, and sending your letter to a representative should you wish, you are giving a voice to the injustice that the disabled minority has suffered for too long. We are worth protecting, but we need your help. Sign and stand with us.