Recognizing ALS and Supporting Accessibility at Work
May is ALS Awareness Month—a time to spotlight Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS leads to the loss of muscle control, impacting movement, speech, and breathing. Recognizing ALS Awareness Month in the workplace underscores a commitment to disability inclusion and supports those affected by this challenging condition.
Looking for a quick, actionable way to acknowledge ALS Awareness Month? This post gives you a fast, DIY DEI tip you can apply right now.
Why This Holiday Matters
ALS Awareness Month is more than a health observance—it’s a call to action for inclusive workplaces. Here’s how it connects to DEI:
✅ It raises awareness about ALS, fostering empathy and understanding for those affected.
✅ It highlights the importance of accessibility and accommodations in the workplace.
✅ It encourages organizations to support employees who are caregivers or have personal connections to ALS.
✅ It promotes advocacy for research and equitable healthcare policies.
By acknowledging ALS Awareness Month, workplaces can demonstrate a commitment to supporting all employees, including those impacted by ALS.
One Inclusive Celebration Idea
Host a “Stories of Strength” Sharing Session
Here’s how:
- Invite Participation: Encourage team members to share personal stories or experiences related to ALS, caregiving, or overcoming challenges.
- Provide Prompts: Use questions like:
- “Do you have a personal connection to ALS or know someone affected by it?”
- “What does resilience mean to you in the face of adversity?”
- Facilitate the Session: Create a safe, respectful space for sharing, whether in-person or virtually.
- Reflect and Act: Discuss how these shared experiences can inform more inclusive practices and policies.
This activity not only honors those affected by ALS but also fosters a culture of empathy and support within the workplace.
👉 Ready to explore more workplace-ready tips? Keep reading.
Ready for More?
Would you like a more detailed celebration guide for this holiday? 👉 Join our Free Community Here In our community, you’ll find deeper DIY DEI guides, a full diversity calendar, and workplace-ready tools to help you sustain inclusive, impactful celebrations year‑round.
Pause & Reflect
How can your organization better support employees affected by ALS and promote disability inclusion?
