ADA Coordinator Team
University ADA Office
315 Old Ivy Way, Suite 203
P.O. Box 400144
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Dear ADA Coordinator Team,
I am writing to seek your guidance and support regarding a challenging workplace issue that I am facing with my employer, Cox Communications. I believe the issues I’m experiencing represent significant ADA compliance concerns, and despite my careful documentation and efforts to resolve these matters, I feel increasingly overwhelmed. My health has been impacted by these ongoing issues, and I find myself struggling to address them on my own.
Over the past several months, I have documented a pattern of ADA non-compliance by Cox Communications, which has not only affected my ability to work effectively but has also impacted my well-being. To date, I have filed formal complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD), and the Civil Rights Division of Virginia, hoping to bring attention to these violations. However, without further support, I worry that my efforts alone will not suffice in bringing about meaningful change.
Below, I have highlighted some of the core issues I am facing in the hope that they may convey the seriousness of this situation and why I am reaching out for assistance:
Ongoing Pattern of Retaliation and Denial of ADA Accommodations: I have repeatedly requested reasonable accommodations, yet these requests have either been denied or ignored by Cox, leaving me unsupported. Despite referencing ADA compliance, their practices have undermined my efforts to work safely and effectively.
Multiple Charges Across Regulatory Agencies: In seeking resolution, I have submitted charges to the EEOC, OFCCP, WHD, and other ADA enforcement agencies. These formal complaints reflect both the severity and scope of the issues I am facing.
Violation of Internal Policies and Federal Workplace Standards: Cox has not only disregarded ADA guidelines but also its own internal policies on employee support and accommodations. I have detailed specific instances where these policies were cited in communication but not followed, further contributing to my struggle.
Impact on My Health and Financial Stability: This prolonged lack of accommodation has caused considerable stress, as documented by my healthcare providers. I am currently managing health issues that have been exacerbated by the lack of accommodations and payroll discrepancies during medical leave.
Comprehensive Documentation: Despite my limited resources, I have meticulously documented each interaction, creating an indexed inventory that details incidents, communications, and responses. This extensive record underscores the continuity and seriousness of these violations.
Potential Broader Organizational Issues: This situation has involved multiple levels of HR administration at Cox, suggesting systemic issues that may be affecting other employees as well. The documented pattern of retaliation and discrimination may be symptomatic of broader practices within the company.
Alignment with Federal Priorities: Given current ADA enforcement efforts, this case aligns with federal goals to address discrimination, workplace rights, and disability accommodations. I believe that bringing these issues to light could have a positive impact on workers facing similar struggles.
Need for Additional Support to Advance the Case: I am reaching the limits of what I can manage alone, especially given my current health challenges. Without further support, I am concerned that Cox’s considerable resources may prevent the necessary accountability and change.
I am reaching out to your office because I value the mission of the University of Virginia to create a fair, accessible environment for individuals with disabilities. If the ADA Coordinator team can provide any guidance, support, or resources, it would make a meaningful difference as I seek to ensure fair treatment for myself and for others who may be facing similar challenges in their workplace.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I am available at your convenience to discuss this further and provide additional documentation if needed.
With sincere appreciation,
Thomas Coates
EEOC Charge of Discrimination. Filed in [Your Case Reference].