One in 17 women have a disability, and according to a recent study, these women, in addition to black women, are having a much worse time getting ahead in the workplace.

This issue was one among many tackled in the 2019 Women in the Workplace study, released recently by LeanIn.org and McKinsey Co. According to the study, women with disabilities face discrimination for being a woman and having a disability.

The study polled several demographics of women, including black, Asian and Latina women, in addition to both men and women. According to the results, only 41% of women with a disability feel they have an equal opportunity for advancement at work. This compares with 55% of white women.

Additionally, women with disabilities are less likely to receive manager support or sponsorship compared with women overall. Forty-eight percent of women with disabilities say they don’t have the sponsorship needed to advance their career.

Other statistics revealed in the study include:

• 54% believe they have equal opportunity for growth and development.
• 36% believe promotions are fair and objective.
• 31% believe promotions go to the most deserving employees.
• 13% believe only the most qualified candidates are promoted.
• 19% believe their manager helps manage their career path.
• 28% believe their manager advocates for new opportunities for them.

Statistics pertaining to black women also are highlighted in the report. Similar to women with a disability, 42% of black women feel they have an equal opportunity for advancement at work, 28% say promotions go to the most deserving candidates, and 11% believe promotions go to the most qualified candidates.

In conclusion, the report suggests that while many companies have a plan to tackle gender diversity, it can’t be a “one size fits all” approach. Gender diversity initiatives must take into account the unique and complex challenges different women face.

Read the full report online.