The Here & Now of Inclusion…at Xerox
Published: 20 February 2024
Author: Jacques-Edouard Gueden, Chief Channel and Partner Officer at Xerox
The Here and Now of fostering an inclusive environment means embracing diversity, not as a goal, but as a necessity of valuing people with disabilities. One crucial aspect of inclusivity is recognizing and supporting individuals with disabilities. This blog delves into the importance of inclusion and sheds light on how our businesses, communities, individuals, and leadership at Xerox can contribute to creating a more accessible and supportive world for all.
Inclusion goes beyond mere tolerance; it means actively involving everyone, regardless of their different abilities, in all aspects of their personal and working life. For individuals with disabilities, inclusion means providing equal opportunities by removing barriers, and fostering a sense of belonging which resonates deeply with  purpose and values exhibited by Xerox.
Society often perpetuates negative stigmas surrounding disabilities which contribute to undesirable outcomes such as exclusion. It’s vital to challenge such misconceptions about disabilities by promoting a more accurate understanding of what it means to live with (or have loved ones with) disabilities. Education and open conversations play a crucial role in dismantling stereotypes. Enable_All has undertaken the challenge of developing an inclusive culture at Xerox, through faster execution and deeper commitments.
Creating an inclusive environment will of course require making physical spaces and digital platforms more accessible. This includes (but is not limited to), installing ramps, elevators, and Braille signage in physical spaces. Digital accessibility, includes the design of websites and applications, to create a more user-friendly environment or everyone, including those with various abilities.
Inclusion in the workplace is a key aspect of fostering a diverse environment. Companies must implement inclusive hiring practices, provide accommodations, and offer training to create a more supportive atmosphere. Embracing diversity not only benefits individuals with disabilities, inclusion also contributes to an openness to new ideas to create a more innovative, dynamic, and fulfilling work environment.
Technology has the potential to empower individuals with disabilities across a wide range of enablers. We at Xerox, are motivated to play a leading role in harnessing technology to foster what should be a natural transition toward a more inclusive culture. Through assistive devices, to inclusive software design, we believe embracing technological advancements in this way can significantly enhance accessibility. Moreover, technology opens further opportunities for education, employment, and social participation.
Inclusion is a journey and the reward for all is in the value created throughout this journey. It is essential to highlight and celebrate our achievements of Enable_ALL…we’ve had quite a few already. By showcasing the unique talents and contributions of persons with disabilities, we break down physical and mental barriers in order to inspire others. Kudos to Tony and a handful of our colleagues who have brought Enable_All to life. In just 1-year, the Enable_ALL team has made generous commitments of personal time, new ideas and developed tremendous support through their enthusiasm for each and every one of us in the spirit of inclusion.
Inclusion and disabilities go hand in hand on the journey toward a more equitable world. By fostering understanding, embracing diversity, and creating inclusive environments, we will individually and collectively contribute to a society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive.
Let us make work, work for ALL to build a future where inclusion is not just a goal but our reality.
