This July, Gartner is recognizing Disability Pride Month through a variety of in-person and virtual events that are open to all associates. Read on to learn more about our Collective Abilities Network (CAN) employee resource group (ERG) and discover how Gartner is celebrating Disability Pride month.
Open to all, CAN at Gartner is a globally inclusive community for associates with hidden and apparent disabilities, mental health challenges, neurodiversity, chronic or acute illness, their caregivers & colleagues. CAN has had a significant impact on our associates and has played an integral role in our continued recognition as a best place to work for disability inclusion by the Disability Equality Index.
To celebrate the month, CAN has organized global programming designed to provide support, share information and empower associate growth. Associates are invited to participate in a wide range of events, including thought-provoking sessions such as a fireside chat on disability allyship, engaging discussions on resilience and a presentation by one of our analysts around how neurodiverse talent can be leveraged as a strategic advantage for organizations. Coffee chats on topics such as resilience, and the unique challenges faced by caregivers and parents navigating neurodiversity or mental health needs are also offered. Associates will also have the chance to be introduced to American Sign Language.
To support well-being and connection, associates can join virtual yoga, acupressure for self-care, and mindfulness-based art workshops. Additionally, the team will be hosting in-person watch parties and a film screening of “Beyond Labels: Redefining Neurodiversity” to offer space for meaningful conversations and community building. We will also host our annual cross-ERG ‘Cribs’ fundraiser During this event, a representative from each of our eight ERGs and a member of our CSR team will share de-stress tips, share where they work at home, and promote a charity they support. Attendees are invited to pledge money to support one of these charities or any other charity that they would like.
We asked some of our associates to share more about how Gartner and our Collective Abilities Network have supported their professional growth. Here’s what they had to say:
“CAN promotes inclusion and respect by providing a space for associates to tell their stories and share how they experience things. Understanding the challenges that come with each other's conditions and circumstances fosters a culture where every associate can feel like they belong.” - Simon F., Senior Consultant
“CAN promotes individual and organization growth. CAN offers learning opportunities about the business, an amazing way to build networks with associates of all levels, and an inclusive workplace culture which boosts positivity and greatly supports in our career progression.” - Ram S., VP, International Finance