Pillar highlight: Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on our diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) pillar. A truly sustainable workplace is one where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. By fostering a culture of belonging, we strengthen our teams, build stronger connections and create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Be sure to visit the Sustainability Champions Teams channel throughout the month to learn more, participate in discussions, and share your own thoughts and experiences. We encourage everyone to join the conversation!


Celebrating Disability Pride Month

July is Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements, experiences and contributions of people with disabilities. It is also an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue building more accessible and inclusive workplaces and communities.

Disability is a natural part of human diversity, and disabilities can be visible or invisible, temporary or lifelong. Disability Pride Month reminds us that every individual brings unique strengths, talents and perspectives that enrich our organization.

Understanding Disability
Disabilities can take many forms, including:
• Physical: Mobility impairments, chronic pain, limb differences
• Sensory: Vision or hearing loss, sensory processing disorders
• Cognitive: Learning disabilities and intellectual disabilities
• Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder
• Neurodivergence: Autism, ADHD, dyslexia
• Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, long COVID and more

Creating a More Inclusive Workplace
Inclusion happens through everyday actions. Here are a few ways we can all help foster belonging:
• Practice respectful and inclusive communication.
• Consider accessibility when creating documents, presentations and meetings.
• Listen to and learn from diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
• Be open to different ways of working and communicating.
• Celebrate the strengths and contributions that make each person unique.

Small actions can make a meaningful difference in helping everyone feel seen, heard and valued.


Upcoming Sustainability Champions Event

Thursday, July 30 at 1 p.m. ET
Adaptive Fitness
Special guest: Mackenzie Warrick, adaptive fitness coach at The Ability Center in Las Vegas

Join us for an engaging discussion about adaptive fitness, accessibility, and inclusive wellness. Learn how fitness can be adapted for individuals with varying abilities and gain insights into creating more accessible experiences both in and outside the workplace. Look for your invite in Outlook or Teams.

 

Important July Observances

• Plastic Free July – Encourages reducing single-use plastics and adopting sustainable alternatives
• July 11: World Population Day – Raises awareness of global population challenges and opportunities
• July 14: International Non-Binary People’s Day – Celebrates and recognizes non-binary individuals around the world
• July 18: Nelson Mandela International Day – Encourages acts of service and positive community impact
• July 25: National Hire a Veteran Day – Highlights the value veterans bring to the workforce
• July 26: ADA Anniversary – Commemorates the Americans with Disabilities Act and advances in accessibility
• July 30: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons – Raises awareness and supports efforts to combat human trafficking


Become a Champion

Help make MCI USA more sustainable and inclusive. Reach out to become a champion:
📧 ussustainabilitychamps@wearemci.com.