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Charlotte Dean reminds us inclusion is something we must all strive for every day because diversity makes us all better employees, friends and colleagues.
In this profile on Our Stories, Charlotte, a Senior Communications Specialist for Electric Transmission Planning and Communications, kicks off National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) with her personal experience of living with a disability. She reminds us how important diversity is – not just because it’s the right thing to do – but because it helps us grow as individuals and strengthens us as a company.
Can you share about yourself, what you do at Dominion Energy and a little bit about your disability?
I currently serve as Senior Communications Specialist for Electric Transmission Planning and Communications. I have been in this role for 2.5 years. In terms of my disability, I was born with cerebral palsy, and it requires me to use a walker as a mobility aid.
Why is it important that we’re all fostering an inclusive workplace for all employees, including for persons with disabilities?
It’s the right thing to do because it helps us grow as individuals and strengthens us as a company. Studies have proven that when companies embrace the role of social interaction in employee engagement, it results in a cohesive team that will work more effectively. We need to develop authentic relationships with each other -- inclusion drives belonging and individuals who feel that they belong are more productive and more innovative.
It should never be a question whether an individual with a disability should be invited to the table or be an active participant in the workplace. There are over 50 million disabled Americans – the odds are favorable that you’re going to meet more than one disabled person in your lifetime. ‘Able-bodied’ people need to become comfortable in their interactions with co-workers who have a disability (whether it’s visible or not) because they are inevitably going to interact with a customer, vendor, or client who is disabled.
If you are unable to develop an authentic relationship with a co-worker you interact with every day, you’re likely going to fail in your interactions outside of the company with someone different than you.
How can individuals ensure that they are creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all abilities?
See the person, not the disability.
What do you think Dominion does well to create an inclusive work environment?
Dominion Energy provides employees the tools, resources, and support for all voices to be heard. The company was recently honored by scoring 100 on the Disability Equality Index (DEI) and recognized as one of the “2021 Best Places to Work for People with Disabilities” as a result. Platforms like the DiverseAbility employee resource group (ERG) provides a safe space for vulnerability, which is critical for people to feel comfortable speaking about sensitive topics or sharing personal stories.
I also encourage employees to join an ERG. I serve as communications co-chair for the DiverseAbility ERG and it’s a wonderful resource for employees to learn, share, and connect with individuals with disabilities and those who are caregivers. The journey of diversity and inclusivity is an ever-evolving issue. Fortunately, I believe our company is invested in ensuring it’s a part of our culture and collective effort to create opportunities for all.
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