Let’s do more than accommodate
Written by Emma McKenney, Owner, McKenney Marketing
Welcome to a recap of the 2023 Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce DE&I Conference – a crucible of diverse ideas, equitable strategies and inclusive practices. This year’s conference brought about a significant focus on recognizing and incorporating these ideas, strategies and practices within the business landscape. Nearly 300 people gathered with a shared purpose of making our region a place where everyone has opportunities to thrive. As an entrepreneur, I love being in any space where people are problem-solving. Between the panels, speakers and breakout sessions everyone was highlighting solutions to increase the workforce and boost our economy. Attendees were shown the importance of having diverse personnel in today’s global market.
One thing I respected is how the conference focused on opportunity perspective. Several keynote speakers explained the effectiveness of building processes that acknowledge the unique outlook of each employee. A crucial inclusion in this year’s conference was the focus on disabilities in the workplace. I learned that inclusion isn’t solely dependent on hiring a diverse staff. We must take it a step further, making workplaces not only accessible but supportive for individuals with disabilities. Experts discussed strategies such as accessible physical infrastructures, providing assistive technologies and fostering a stigma free environment. As a technology focused person, I love the considerations for digital accessibility and inclusive designed digital interfaces. These steps not only support individuals with disabilities but also signify a mature and empathetic workplace culture. This subject, often overlooked in DE&I conversations, was given the spotlight it so deserved.
Attendees were reminded that a truly diverse workforce must encompass all aspects of human experience. Personal stories of struggle and resilience were shared, bringing a human touch to the often impersonal world of business. The stories painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities – from physical accessibility issues to the unseen obstacles of bias and lack of understanding. It was a humbling reminder that while we have made great strides in DE&I we still have much to learn and improve.
The Chamber, being the forward thinking community we love, reminded us that our goal isn’t just to include people but embrace them. I’ve learned ways to create spaces within my business, where every individual can bring their whole selves to work, knowing they will be valued, not in spite of their disabilities, but inclusive of them. The true measure of a diverse and inclusive workplace is in statistics and our policies. It lies in the day-to-day experiences of its most vulnerable members. It’s the assurance that no one feels like an outsider and that we’re all moving forward together. As we strive towards the same ideal, we should remember the lessons learned at the conference, carrying them as a beacon of change.
