Today, December 3rd is International Day of Disabled Persons. The commemoration of the day aims to encourage a better understanding of people affected by a disability and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. As well as raise awareness about the benefits of creating a society that is inclusive to everyone’s needs by integrating disabled persons into every aspect of life, from economic, to political, to social and cultural.
This Years Theme: The 2020 IDPWD Theme:”Not All Disabilities Are Visible”
This theme focuses on spreading awareness and understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent, such as mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning differences, and cognitive dysfunctions, among others.
Almost everyone will be temporarily or permanently impaired at some point in life. Despite this, few countries have adequate mechanisms in place to respond fully to the needs of people with disabilities. The World Health Organization estimates that more than one billion people – about 15% of the world’s population – experience some form of disability. Of this number, it’s estimated 450 million are living with a mental or neurological condition— and two-thirds of these people will not seek professional medical help, largely due to stigma, discrimination, and neglect.
On this day, we are encouraged to think about how we can create a community that is inclusive for everyone. This can be done by holding discussions, forums and campaigns relating to disability, and communities are encouraged to organize meetings, talks.
Check out four companies who honor their disabled employees by offering specialized benefits and programs.
3M has an internal DisAbility Network for employees with a disability who would like more support or want to learn more about how to be an ally to those with disabilities. It’s made up of over 200 employees with disabilities, loved ones of those with disabilities, and advocates for those with disabilities.
The company recently received a 100% score on the 2019 Disability Equality Index, recognizing their continued work to achieve equality and inclusion for those with disabilities (they’ve earned this several years in a row).
At 3M, disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including non-apparent disabilities such as cancer or diabetes.
General Dynamics Mission Systems
Beyond the typical compliance requirements and reasonable accommodation request management – GDMS goes above and beyond to create an environment and culture of disability inclusion.
This year’s GDMS diversity recruitment plan included engagement with: Bender Consulting, Careers and the DisAbled, Gallaudet University, Disability: in, and numerous Wounded Warrior organizations.
Through volunteerism and philanthropy – GDMS hosted a Veterans Council ERG Campaign to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project through a virtual 5k that ran from September through November. Their executive leadership staff has made giving a priority to Sentinels of Freedom as a corporate partner.
Finally, GDMS, as a corporate partner and member of the BoD of the DC Metro affiliate of Disability: In – they are proud to have served as the host of numerous information sessions with industry colleagues featuring speakers from ODEP, DoL, OFCCP, and other agencies supporting disability employment advocacy.
They’re proud of the work they have accomplished and for the recognition as a “2020 Best Places to Work” by the American Association of People with Disabilities and Disability.
Pinterest *Hiring Surge*
Pinterest is home to PinAble, an Employee Resource Group (known internally as Employee Community) with the mission to build an inclusive and accessible community where everyone, regardless of ability, can find inspiration to create a life they love. PinAble advocates for people with all abilities, including Pinployees, job candidates, Pinners, allies, and caregivers. Our sister group, Pinside Out, works on educating, informing, and supporting our fellow Pinployees internally and Pinners externally with respect to mental health and invisible illness.
Experian *Hiring Surge*
Experian supports an inclusive work environment which is supported by various Employee Resource Groups (ERG). One such group is the ASPIRE ERG whose goal is to grow a supportive community that addresses mental health, advocates for those with disabilities, and supports caregivers.
As part of the ASPIRE ERG’s focus, they work with Disability Solutions, which is an external resource that partners with a nationwide network of community organizations, colleges, and universities, support social media communications to connect with individuals with disabilities and share information about jobs available within Experian. They also provide training for our employees and leaders which covers awareness, compliance, and how to attract, hire, and retain talent with disabilities.
Experian continues to expand its reach through efforts like these to make it an Employer’s Choice for those with disabilities.
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