Disability Employee Resource Group
We know there is a need for a disability ERG, and are currently looking for employees that have an interest to help form, join and/or lead such a group. Tom Lynch is currently gauging interest, so all interested employees should email tom.lynch@nhcc.edu directly. See the message below:
Greetings All, As many of you know, the system is now supporting the development Employee Resource Groups (ERG’s). These employee-led groups are formed to support those who may have historically found challenges with full inclusion in the workplace due to race, Identity, gender, ability, etc. The members of these groups and their allies come together to support each other and to advocate for their needs within the larger organization. They also arrange for speakers to present topics of interest for the group and, in some cases hold, awareness-building activities for the organization. While several statewide ERG’s have been formed, none has been formed for individuals with disability concerns. Through some of my work beyond the college, I have seen that most large employers in the state do have active disability employee resource groups, many of whom, I’ve visited with. As a result, I and some of my colleagues throughout the system, would like to see if there’s enough interests on our respective campuses for the formation of a Minnesota State disability ERG. Many of us do deal with both visible and invisible ability challenges or, have a family member with these kinds of challenges. Others may just want to be supportive of their colleagues with these challenges (allies). If there is enough interest on our campus, I would be happy to facilitate an initial meeting to discuss next steps. Please let me know individually if you would have an interest in attending such a meeting.
Tom Lynch
Director of Access Services and Learning Resource Center
North Hennepin Community College
763-493-0556