Disability and diversity: Bridging the gap to inclusion

All times listed are central time (CT).

“Living the good life” is not equally accessible to all Americans. While great strides have been made toward equity and equality of gender, race and sexual orientation, one aspect of diversity and inclusion (D&I) efforts that continues to be neglected is disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 24% of American adults experience some type of disability. While 90% of businesses claim to prioritize D&I efforts, only 4% consider disability a focus within their initiatives, according to a Return on Disability Group report. Disability emerges as a social construct when physical and/or mental divergence leads to restricted access to valued aspects of one’s life. What social, political and cultural influences and expectations need to be bridged for inclusion of the disabled? What changes need to be made in educational institutions to ensure this inclusion? How can hiring processes and work environments better integrate persons with physical, intellectual and other neurodivergent disabilities?

Host: Cole Howerton     Q&A Moderator: Dr. Jordan Belisle