Disability Inclusion Commitments logo

Disability Inclusion Commitments

Practical, proven actions that law firms and legal departments can take to build workplaces where everyone—including people with disabilities—can thrive

The Disability Inclusion Commitments focus on equal treatment, equal opportunity, and equal access.​

Building a Culture of Inclusion for People With Disabilities

Impact Highlights

29

speakers presented 8 Disability Inclusion webinars during the pilot.

>50%

law firms are taking four or more actions towards disability inclusion at their firm.

200+

law firm leaders gathered virtually to exchange insights on creating truly inclusive workplace cultures.

Purpose

1

Establish a disability employee resource group.

2

Conduct an annual survey for lawyers and business professionals to identify as having a disability.

3

Create opportunities for everyone in the firm to discuss their ideas and perspectives on inclusive actions and language related to disabilities.

4

Remove physical barriers for employees, clients, and other constituents to perform their jobs.

5

Remove digital barriers.

6

Ensure firm and client events don’t exclude colleagues with disabilities.

7

Infuse the culture with inclusivity for people with disabilities and reward individuals who do the work.

8

Increase opportunities to hire disabled people.

9

Start a disability mentorship program.

10

Add disability inclusion to the board’s and/or management committee’s agenda.

Process

Proof

Many participating firms are now:

  • Conducting an annual survey for individuals to identify as having a disability.
  • Facilitating a centralized disability accommodations program.
  • Removing physical barriers for employees, clients, and other constituents.
  • Ensuring their websites and other digital resources are accessible.

 

Upon signing onto the Commitments, many participating firms pledged to:

  • Create opportunities for everyone in the firm to discuss their ideas and perspectives on inclusive actions and language related to disabilities.
  • Increase opportunities to hire disabled people.
  • Ensure firm and client in-person and online events are inclusive and accessible for colleagues with disabilities.
  • Work with experts to enhance the digital accessibility of websites, client portals, and more.

Thank You

Our sincere gratitude goes to the law firms and legal departments — including McDonald’s, Discover, Astellas, and more — that partnered with us to cultivate a culture of inclusion for all. 

The Disability Inclusion Commitments are being updated based on lessons from our successful pilot program. Check back soon for an enhanced framework to help your organization foster a more disability-inclusive and equitable environment and for the opportunity to sign onto the updated Commitments!

Join the Movement

We invite all organizations to take these actions to foster a more inclusive environment for those with apparent and non-apparent disabilities.