[FONT=""][COLOR=""][SIZE=""]I’m not sure if this is in the right place so I apologize if it isn’t.

I worked at a business for about six years and got laid off fairly early on in the pandemic. I was never given adequate communication on the status of my job and wasn’t told until many months later that I had, indeed, lost my job. There was several changes in the executive role and I was told by the previous person in the role — who I have grown very close to over the years — that this individual has a different professional mindset than she does. I really have no better way to word that.

I guess what I mean is that she’s not receptive to offers for volunteer work or any other engagement not only from me, but from another individual. This other individual, who lives in the same community as me, has previously had some sort of engagement while I was employed there; these opportunities was given by the person who held the executive role back then. However, in the current standing, I am told that this individual and her support group are getting no responses from anyone there.

Just like I’ve tried reaching out several times and have gotten no responses either.

Now, here’s where we get to the question. I have Autism and the individual I’m referring to — who is also trying to reach out with her support group — has Down Syndrome. My question is: Is this discrimination? Is it discrimination on the basis of our neurodivergence or having a chromosomal difference?

I’ll say that I have reached out several times in recent months and have received radio silence. I volunteered at several events and was no acknowledged in any form, nor was I given any credit when I took pictures at events. I can't speak for the individual with Down Syndrome, but I know she enjoyed being involved in the past.

This isn’t just a minor oversight. Something is happening and I am not sure what.

I’m sorry, I have no idea where to turn but to this forum. I have too many mutual connections on Facebook, my person is probably tired of my complaints — although she never expresses it, and nobody else would be willing to analyze it with me or come up with possible alternatives… or just let me vent and offer some words of wisdom.

Thanks.[/size][/color][/font]