I did!

Greetings, fellow amputees and our cherished ally-people! Today, join me to explore the evolving landscape of inclusion, with a spotlight on Salesforce‘s endeavors in the realm of disability employment. Salesforce’s journey toward improved accessibility is ongoing – for example, check out the Accessibility page for their 2023 Dreamforce conference, held a few weeks ago – and they’re definitely making meaningful strides.

Mike Hess: Pioneering Change with the Blind Institute of Technology

Let’s kick (while holding on to something for balance) things off with Mike Hess. Mike, who has been legally blind since childhood, didn’t let societal stigmas or barriers stop him. Instead, he founded the Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) to bridge the employment gap for professionals with disabilities. With workshops like “Tell Me About Yourself” (because, let’s face it, we all need a little help sounding interesting) and “Let’s Get in Touch” (for those of us still figuring out the difference between ‘Reply’ and ‘Reply All’), BIT is bridging the employment gap for professionals with disabilities. And they’re doing it with a flair that even the most seasoned emailer or resume-crafter could appreciate.

But Mike’s vision didn’t stop there; he found a powerful ally in the tech world to further the mission. Enter Salesforce, an innovator of…many of the things. Salesforce joined forces with BIT to ensure tech careers are more accessible to all. With less than 10% of global websites being screen reader-friendly, Mike and Salesforce are on a mission to level the playing field. Additionally, BIT collaborates with Salesforce as an approved training ally, focusing on assistive tech solutions. They’re dedicated to pinpointing career avenues for the blind, visually impaired, and the wider disability community.

One of the highlights of Dreamforce 2023 for me was witnessing Mike being honored with the Golden Hoodie. His recognition was truly earned, and I was thrilled to catch the moment live on Salesforce+, the event’s livestreaming platform.

Brooke Eby: Advocacy Beyond Diagnosis

Brooke Eby’s story is a testament to resilience. Diagnosed with ALS at 33, she’s been a vocal advocate for the disease’s awareness. But her advocacy doesn’t stop there. By day, she’s part of the Salesforce family, where she’s been able to intertwine her advocacy with her professional role.

The Levity Project, initiated by her Salesforce team, encourages movement to raise awareness and funds for ALS research. And the best part? Salesforce’s executive team and the broader ecosystem have joined the cause!

At Dreamforce, Brooke shared her journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding and awareness around ALS. Her story serves as a reminder of the diverse faces and challenges within the disability community.

For more on Brooke’s journey, check out her Instagram: limpbroozkit.

Salesforce: Taking Steps Towards a More Inclusive Future

Salesforce’s current statistic, with 3.4% of their employees identifying as having a disability, may not be headline-making, but it’s crucial to acknowledge their continuous strides. Their partnership with organizations like BIT and their unwavering support for employees such as Brooke Eby highlight a dedication to fostering a more inclusive environment.

Additionally, Salesforce boasts an equality group dedicated to individuals with disabilities. Their goal? To ensure everyone feels acknowledged, understood, and appreciated. They’re champions of the ‘person-first’ language approach. If you’ve ever hesitated over how to address someone with a disability, simply ask them. Alternatively, dive into Salesforce’s enlightening video series, ‘Creating an Accessible Workplace with Abilityforce.’ It’s educational, stylish, and laced with a touch of wit. Hats off to Salesforce for initiating such inclusive measures. While there’s always more ground to cover, every move towards inclusivity is progress. We’re rooting for them every step of the way!

Join the Conversation

Know of any companies making strides in disability inclusion? Or perhaps you’ve had a personal experience with a company that’s shown commitment to the cause? Share your stories in the comments below! Let’s celebrate progress and inspire more companies to join the journey. If you’re looking to make a difference, consider attending local workshops on disability inclusion, or advocate for accessibility training in your workplace. Every step, no matter how small, can lead to a more inclusive community.

Here’s to a world where every effort towards inclusion counts!