Creating Disability Inclusive Workplaces During National Inclusion Week

Every September, organizations around the world take part in National Inclusion Week, a week dedicated to reflection, learning, and action. This year, it runs from September 15–21, and it’s a perfect opportunity to ask: what does inclusion really look like in our workplace?

What Inclusion Means in Practice

Inclusion isn’t just about representation or meeting compliance requirements. It’s about ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, background, or circumstance – feels welcomed, valued, and able to thrive. True inclusion shows up in policies, in leadership, in workplace culture, and in everyday interactions.

Why Inclusion Matters

• It’s good for people: Employees who feel included are happier, healthier, and more engaged.

• It’s good for business: Inclusive teams are more creative, more productive, and better at problem-solving.

• It’s good for community: A culture of inclusion at work ripples outward, shaping how people engage in the wider world.

Ways to Celebrate National Inclusion Week

1. Host conversations: Invite employees to share their personal experiences and what inclusion means to them.

2. Do an accessibility audit: Look for barriers in your physical spaces, your website, and your policies.

3. Spotlight diverse voices: Highlight employees or clients from underrepresented groups and celebrate their contributions.

4. Provide learning opportunities: Offer training on unconscious bias, disability inclusion, or inclusive communication.

5. Encourage small daily acts: From using inclusive language to recognizing achievements, little changes add up.

Making Inclusion Year-Round

National Inclusion Week is a great catalyst, but the real work happens the other 51 weeks of the year. Inclusion must be woven into the DNA of the workplace: hiring practices, leadership decisions, team dynamics, and even the way we celebrate wins.

When we make space for every voice, we don’t just comply with standards, we create cultures of belonging. This National Inclusion Week, let’s take intentional steps forward toward building workplaces where everyone can thrive, not just survive.