Myth or reality? Rethinking disability and accessibility at work
Talent & Inclusion
Updated 
2 min. read
National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity for everyone to deepen understanding of disability and accessibility and how we can all contribute to more inclusive workplaces.
Roslyn MacLean, Co-Chair of BMO Without Barriers – BMO’s Employee Resource Group to support employees with disabilities – shares her experiences as a person with a disability, and some common myths about disability and accessibility that everyone can learn from.
Myth: There is one typical experience of disability.Reality: Disability is experienced differently by everyone and isn’t always apparent.
“I’ve built a rewarding 26-year career at BMO while managing non-apparent disabilities that impact my life every day. Disability is part of my story, and so is growth and achievement.”
Disabilities can take many forms. They may be apparent or non-apparent, permanent or episodic, and physical, mental or cognitive. Recognizing that broad scope is an important part of creating workplaces where people can contribute and grow.
Myth: Accessibility is simply about providing physical accommodation.Reality: Accessibility is strongest when it is built into how we work.
For Roslyn, a truly accessible workplace considers inclusion across the physical environment, technology, processes and culture.
“Accessibility shouldn’t feel like an exception or a special request. It should be viewed as a normal part of enabling people to contribute fully.”
Creating that environment also means equipping leaders to have thoughtful conversations and helping employees feel comfortable speaking about what they need to succeed.
Myth: Making workplaces more accessible always requires big changes.Reality: Small, intentional actions can help remove barriers.
Everyday choices can make a difference, from considering accessibility when planning events and meetings to providing information in different formats.
Most importantly, accessibility is something everyone can help advance.
“The reality is that inclusive workplaces promote a sense of belonging, and belonging fosters innovation. When a process, practice or expectation unintentionally prevents someone from participating, it’s in everyone’s best interest to think differently and find a better way.”
This National Disability Employment Awareness Month and beyond, take the opportunity to listen, learn and challenge our assumptions about what accessibility and disability inclusion look like.
