Observed each year in October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a time for us to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities. The goal of the month is to raise awareness surrounding the employment needs and contributions of employees within the spectrum of physical and mental abilities. Throughout the month and beyond, it is a time for us to highlight the value of a diverse workforce that is inclusive of the skills, talents, and experiences of all employees.
The theme for 2022 is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.” With this, it’s key to understand the difference between equality and equity. While equality generally provides the same treatment to all, equity focuses on how each person faces unique circumstances and allocates resources and opportunities as needed to create equal outcomes for disadvantaged individuals. By making disability a part of the equity equation, all places of employment are encouraged to advocate for the employment of people with disabilities.
What You Can Do to Recognize NDEAM:
- Move beyond awareness. By working to become intentionally accepting and inclusive, our community makes more space for individuals with disabilities.
- Screen a documentary or read a book on disability to become better educated.
- Recognize how disability is complex. Rather than using diagnostic or categorical approaches to understanding disability, acknowledge that disability is much more nuanced than what is shown at face value.
At Horizon, we remain committed to creating and sustaining a workplace that is accessible, empowering, and inclusive to employees with disabilities. Learn more about our Stronger Together Action Plan.