Saskatchewan is celebrating Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) this October, as proclaimed by the Provincial Government. DEAM serves as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of individuals with disabilities and to highlight the importance of inclusivity in the workforce.
SARC, a provincial organization supporting community-based organizations that serve individuals with disabilities, is leading efforts to promote awareness throughout the month. Amy McNeil, Executive Director of SARC, emphasized the growing recognition of the economic benefits that inclusive hiring brings to businesses.
"Every year, we see more employers recognizing the value of hiring people with disabilities as they diversify their workforce and tap into a previously untapped pool of skilled workers," McNeil said. "Inclusive employers throughout Saskatchewan understand that hiring people with disabilities is good for business, good for the community, and good for the economy."
SARC is spearheading Saskatchewan’s participation in Light It Up! For NDEAM, a national initiative recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and DEAM. On October 17, 2024, businesses, organizations, and government bodies are invited to illuminate their buildings in purple and blue to highlight the contributions of workers with disabilities. Interested participants are encouraged to contact SARC to be part of this growing movement across Canada.
The initiative is particularly significant for rural communities like those in West Central Saskatchewan, where disability inclusion is steadily gaining recognition as a key factor in workforce development. Tamara Wiebe, Executive Director of West Central Abilities, highlighted the diverse range of disabilities that can impact individuals, from chronic conditions like lupus to psychiatric or invisible disabilities such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
"Disability inclusion isn't just the right thing to do—it’s beneficial for companies," Wiebe said. "It can help expand the applicant pool and boost employee morale, especially as more people are prioritizing inclusive workspaces. Employment plays a critical role in the independence and well-being of individuals with disabilities, and accommodations should be provided to help maintain long-term employment."
Wiebe also pointed out that inclusive hiring has tangible benefits for employers, including higher retention rates and reduced turnover. Employees with disabilities often seek stable, long-term roles, which can significantly improve productivity and reduce resources spent on replacing departing workers.
Beyond just hiring, Wiebe emphasized the importance of creating an environment where disabled employees feel valued and supported. This goes beyond physical accessibility and includes providing appropriate accommodations, fostering an accepting workplace culture, and offering professional growth opportunities.
"Employees with disabilities bring unique perspectives and fresh problem-solving approaches to the workplace," Wiebe noted. "Creating an inclusive work environment not only supports individuals with disabilities but also boosts overall employee engagement and morale. It benefits everyone."
While West Central Abilities currently doesn't have individuals in the workforce, the organization remains hopeful about future opportunities for inclusion.
"We’re not quite there yet, but we hope to grow and help clients who require jobs find inclusion in the community," Wiebe shared. "If businesses in the West Central area are considering hiring individuals with disabilities, we would work with them 100% to ensure the process is supported, and we’re here to assist both the employers and the employees."
As DEAM unfolds across Saskatchewan, the hope is that more businesses, especially in rural areas, will take steps toward inclusive hiring, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of ability—have the opportunity to contribute to the workforce and the community.