Introduction
As businesses continue to prioritize creating inclusive workplaces, one crucial area often overlooked is disability inclusion. With National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) approaching in October, now is the perfect time for companies to assess and enhance their commitment to fostering an accessible and supportive work environment. This post will explore actionable steps your business can take to contribute to NDEAM and create a culture that supports employees with disabilities.
The Importance of Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, established in 1945, has evolved into a key initiative that raises awareness about employment issues and celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities. This month is crucial for bringing Disability Employment Awareness to the forefront. In today’s rapidly changing work environment, where inclusivity is more critical than ever, NDEAM offers businesses an opportunity to spotlight their efforts in building an inclusive workforce. Ensuring that all employees, regardless of ability, have equal access to opportunities is not just about compliance—it’s about creating a thriving, diverse workplace where everyone can succeed.
How Your Business Can Support Disability Employment Awareness
Reviewing Policies for Disability Employment Awareness
Accessibility should be a cornerstone of any inclusive strategy. Take this time to review your current accessibility policies to ensure they are up-to-date and effective. Consider whether your workplace and practices genuinely support employees with disabilities. If not, develop clear, actionable policies that address these gaps. For instance, ensuring that your recruitment process is fully accessible can help attract diverse talent, while providing accommodations can support employee retention. These efforts are pivotal in increasing Disability Employment Awareness within your company. Learn more about creating and implementing an Accessibility Policy in our Accessibility Policy and Implementation course.
Invest in Training and Education
Building an inclusive workplace requires ongoing education. Host workshops or webinars that focus on disability etiquette, inclusive communication, and creating accessible digital content. Training sessions can help your team understand the challenges faced by employees with disabilities and equip them with the tools to contribute to a more inclusive environment. Investing in education not only improves workplace culture but also enhances your company’s reputation as a leader in Disability Employment Awareness and accessibility. You can consider many of our Accessibility Training options depending on where your team is at.
Highlighting Success Stories
Celebrating the achievements of employees with disabilities is a powerful way to reinforce your commitment to inclusion. Internally, recognize and share stories of how these employees have contributed to your company’s success. Externally, consider running a public awareness campaign during NDEAM to showcase your company’s efforts in promoting disability inclusion. Sharing these stories on your website, social media channels, and in company newsletters can boost engagement and demonstrate your dedication to Disability Employment Awareness and inclusivity. You can host an Understanding Accessibility: Learning from People with Disabilities event at your company so people can better understand how people with disabilities interact with the world around them.
Conducting Accessibility Audits
Conduct a thorough audit of both your physical and digital workspaces. Are your office spaces fully accessible to employees and visitors with disabilities? Do your websites and digital platforms comply with accessibility standards, such as WCAG 2.1? Addressing these questions and making necessary adjustments can significantly improve the experience of employees with disabilities and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. By doing so, you’ll boost Disability Employment Awareness within your organization. Moreover, an accessible workplace can attract a broader range of talent, further enhancing your company’s diversity. You can contact us about an Accessibility Audit so you can start your journey.
Engage with the Community
NDEAM is an excellent opportunity to connect with the broader community and disability advocacy groups. Partnering with local disability organizations can provide valuable insights and resources to help your business enhance its accessibility efforts. Additionally, consider sponsoring or participating in local NDEAM events, offering volunteer opportunities for your employees, or even hosting your own events to raise awareness. These efforts can strengthen your company’s ties to the community and reinforce your commitment to Disability Employment Awareness and inclusion.
Encouraging Your Business to Lead by Example
As your business gears up for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, consider how you can lead by example in promoting inclusivity. Whether it’s by updating policies, providing training, or engaging with the community, your efforts will not only contribute to a more inclusive workplace but also set a standard for others to follow. These actions during NDEAM will increase your Disability Employment Awareness, setting a benchmark for other organizations.
Share your thoughts on how you’re planning to make a difference this October. Join the conversation by leaving a comment below or connecting with us on social media.
Michael Harshbarger is an experienced project manager and accessibility consultant. He is passionate about helping businesses create inclusive digital experiences. With over ten years of experience in project management and accessibility, Michael established AccessibilityFirst Solutions LLC. Michael believes in promoting accessibility as a core business value. He thinks that inclusive design benefits not only those with disabilities but also enhances the user experience for everyone. Michael holds a Master’s degree in Project Management. He has successfully implemented accessibility programs for Fortune 100 companies. In his free time, Michael enjoys exploring the outdoors with his family and playing tabletop role-playing games.