ACCP Staff
July is Disability Pride Month, which commemorates the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990. Disability Pride Month offers a time for celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity by shining a light on the barriers our society has for people with disabilities to navigate.
It is also a chance to encourage corporations to advance disability inclusion and actively support disability initiatives, fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.
Raising Awareness and Empowering Individuals
Disability Pride Month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the experiences and accomplishments of people with disabilities. It aims to eliminate stigmas, challenge misconceptions, and create a culture that celebrates every individual’s unique talent and ability. By acknowledging and embracing diversity, companies can cultivate an inclusive work environment that not only supports employees with disabilities but also benefits the entire organization.
Corporate Initiatives
CEO Letter on Disability Inclusion: Over 160 corporations have signed the CEO Letter on Disability Inclusion, spearheaded by Disability:IN. These CEOs have committed to advancing equity and inclusion within their companies and participating in the Disability Inclusion Index, the leading corporate benchmarking tool for disability equality.
Microsoft: Microsoft has long been recognized for its commitment to disability inclusion. In 2022, the company took a significant step by launching the Disability: IN Autistic Talent Pipeline Program. This initiative aimed to bridge the employment gap for individuals on the autism spectrum by providing training, mentorship, and job opportunities within the company. By harnessing the talents of employees with autism, Microsoft expanded its talent pool and set an example for other corporations to follow.
Walmart: As one of the largest employers in the world, Walmart has made substantial efforts to advance disability inclusion. In 2022, the company launched the Project ASPIRE program, which focused on empowering associates with disabilities through career development, mentorship, and accommodations.
Through providing support and resources, Walmart demonstrated its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, where every individual can thrive and succeed.
Accenture: Accenture has consistently been at the forefront of promoting disability inclusion. In 2022, the company further strengthened its commitment by launching the Disability Ally Network. This internal initiative aimed to educate employees about disability-related issues, promote understanding, and foster a culture of allyship and support.
By encouraging open dialogue and active engagement, Accenture created an environment where individuals with disabilities feel valued and respected.
Starbucks: Starbucks has been recognized for its disability inclusion efforts for many years. In 2022, the company expanded its commitment by partnering with organizations like National Organization on Disability and Lime Connect to enhance its recruitment efforts and create more opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Starbucks’ dedication to building a diverse and inclusive workforce has resulted in meaningful employment for many people who face disability-related challenges. The company is also adding 1,000 Starbucks Community Stores to provide a more inclusive experience for patrons and reach vulnerable communities in the U.S.
Disability Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder that disability inclusion is not just a moral imperative but also a business advantage. By celebrating the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities, we can build a more equitable and inclusive society.
Many corporations are actively working towards advancing disability inclusion, supporting their employees, and breaking down barriers, but more work can always be done, such as learning more about ableism, understanding how your own privilege may impede your allyship (and how to prevent it), and how to best support disabled individuals. A few articles and resources:
https://simmons.libguides.com/anti-oppression/anti-ableism#Allies
19 Examples of Ability Privilege
10 Examples of Walking Privilege That All Walking People Should Acknowledge
We also encourage you and your company to consider ways to help prompt disability awareness and inclusion within your organization and consider resources to learn more, including:
https://www.them.us/story/what-is-disability-pride-month-ableism-disability-allyship
https://www.accessliving.org/newsroom/blog/ableism-101/
https://emtrain.com/blog/diversity/disability-pride/
10 Things to Think About before Organizations “Celebrate the ADA” July 26
As we move forward, it is crucial for all organizations to listen to and consider the experiences of disabled individuals within their diversity and inclusion strategies. By creating accessible workplaces, fostering a culture of equity and inclusion, and implementing policies that support individuals with disabilities, corporations can lead the way in driving positive change.
