Banner note: This article contains separate information from UW-W and Studio 84 regarding National Disability Employment Awareness Month.)
(UW-W Press Release) UW-Whitewater Hosts Forum to Support Inclusive Workplaces for Disabled Employees
In support of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, UW-Whitewater Working for Inclusion, Leadership and Learning (UW-WILL) is pleased to announce a three-day forum held virtually from Wednesday, October 14 through Friday, October 16, 2020.
A panel of experts will facilitate discussions and interactive sessions that will empower those with disabilities, both visible and hidden, to thrive in the workplace. Employers will gain insight into developing and implementing best practices around the recruitment and training of employees with disabilities to fulfill compliance regulations and provide supportive and inclusive work environments. Attendees will earn a certificate of completion of disability inclusion training and also receive access to an employment risk assessment tool and outcomes for complying with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).
All are welcome as this event is offered free of charge and open to the public. To register, visit https://www.uww.edu/ce/willforum. For more information, please contact Elizabeth Watson at watsone@uww.edu or 262-472-1533.
“Embracing the Wisconsin Idea, the WILL team at UW-Whitewater invites you to participate in this opportunity to support our employees, community members, businesses and lifelong learners to embrace equity and diversity for persons with disabilities in our state. The opportunity to enhance employment opportunities, support our businesses and economy is part of our passion and mission. We’re a partner in solving your business solutions, moving towards equity and compliance.” Elizabeth Watson, Interim Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Interim Dean of Students, Primary Investigator and founder of Center for Inclusive Transition, Education and Employment.
The mission of Working for Inclusion, Leadership, and Learning (WILL) is to provide valuable resources for employers to develop strategies and tools to create more disability-friendly work environments, including self-assessments, training, and certifications. Customized services and resource consultations are offered in partnership with UW-WILL including assessment of needs, compliance review, training and professional development, and customized talent pipelines, development and implementation of best practices and policies. For more information, visit https://www.uww.edu/will.
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(Studio 84 Press Release, Oct. 5) Nationwide campaign takes place in October
Studio 84 announced its participation in National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Increasing Access and Opportunity.” Studio 84 is a non profit art studio that specializes in the creative development of people with disabilities in the arts and is located in Whitewater.
The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
“Ensuring that America’s workplaces continue to include and accommodate people with disabilities will be an important part of our economic rebound,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia. “Looking ahead, the Department will remain focused on the policies that led to a strong economy and record-low unemployment rates for persons with disabilities prior to the pandemic. A vigorous economic rebound and job growth will, alongside the Americans with Disabilities Act, increase access and opportunity for Americans with disabilities.”
Reflecting this year’s theme, throughout the month, Studio 84 will be educating the community on disability employment issues and its commitment to an inclusive work culture.
“Studio 84 is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month,” said director of Studio 84 Deborah Blackwell. “We want to spread the important message that we value all perspectives, including those of individuals with disabilities.”
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages — during October and throughout the year — by visiting www.dol.gov/NDEAM.
You can learn more about how Studio 84 supports artists with their integrated community employment programing. They currently have five artists in various stages of their career development in the arts with a micro business. Visit www.studio84inc.org to learn more.
