Last week, Regions was awarded the highest possible score of 100 on the 2022 Disability Equality Index (DEI), the leading nonprofit resource for business disability inclusion worldwide.
This was the second year in a row for Regions to be acknowledged for this award.
The Disability Equality Index was launched in 2015 by Disability:IN and The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and is acknowledged today as the most robust disability inclusion assessment tool in business.
Clara Green, head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Regions, stated in a press release announcing this award, “Disability awareness and accommodation are an important part of Regions’ culture of inclusion and belonging, and we’re proud to receive this distinction for the second year.”
She further stated, “At Regions we know that making the workplace inclusive for all is the right thing to do, and we will continue to work toward creating an inclusive environment where all can thrive and prosper.”
Disability inclusion is a rapidly expanding aspect of corporate culture. Globally, over 1 billion people have a form of disability. Regions is one of many companies adopting emerging trends and pioneering measures for inclusion in the workplace.
The Disability Equality Index (DEI) is a comprehensive benchmarking tool that helps companies build a roadmap of measurable, tangible actions that they can take to achieve disability inclusion and equality.
Some of the efforts pursued by Regions through this process include:
• In 2021, Regions continued to provide associates with the opportunity to self-identify as having a disability.
• Regions has a dedicated Disability Services and Outreach Manager who manages external and internal outreach efforts.
• Every year, Regions celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month by hosting educational events for associates.
• Regions’ commitment includes raising awareness of autism spectrum disorders and creating an autism-friendly environment in branches, as well as investing in programs that both promote independent living and increase access to job readiness and employment.
• Regions is dedicated to inclusivity and accessibility for its customers, providing accessible products and services, both in person and online.
• In April, Regions partnered with United Ability to host a hands-on financial education tour for Birmingham, Alabama-area students with disabilities.
• Regions is committed to increasing supply chain opportunities for certified diverse suppliers, including those that are owned and controlled by minorities, women, veterans, disabled individuals and LGBTQ individuals.
