Disability is an aspect of diversity, but it is not always embraced in the same way as other aspects of identity. Even though disability is a part of human life that most of us experience at some point, we are not always comfortable talking about it. Be aware that stereotypes and assumptions often factor into our initial impressions. Taking time to understand, and being open to listening, can make a big difference.
We all play a role
People are often surprised when they learn how prevalent disability is. The climate we cultivate, and the way we communicate, matters to so many people. We all have a role to play in making PCC accessible and inclusive.
Do you perform any of the following tasks? If so, it’s essential that you understand accessibility:
- Create newsletters, forms, or digital materials
- Plan events or configure spaces
- Develop courses or workshops
- Supervise the work of others
How you can help
Below are examples of how accessibility factors into your everyday work.
In the work environment
Leaders and managers:
- Instill a commitment to accessibility.
- Recognize and value relevant skills and cultural competency.
- Include disability-related professional development opportunities in strategic plans.
- Understand the employee accommodation process and work with HR to provide adjustments.
In the recruitment and hiring process
- Describe job functions by what needs to be done, not the manner by which it happens.
- For example, an employee may need to produce written materials, but it doesn’t matter if they use dictation software to do so. It’s the ability to produce written materials that matters, not the ability to type.
- Include preferred qualifications that relate to disability and accessibility when appropriate.
- Encourage disabled job seekers by using language that shows our commitment to accessibility.
In the learning environment
We want students to experience a straightforward process when using accommodations. To make this happen, faculty and staff need to be ready to navigate the accommodation process.
Faculty and staff:
- Understand the student accommodation process.
- Get training and support to create accessible content.
Department Chairs, Deans, and Managers:
- Prepare to triage questions.
- Support resolution of accommodation-related concerns.
- Leverage data from disability services in program reviews.
- Include disability-related professional development opportunities in strategic plans for departments and divisions.