THE SUPERPOWER PROJECT

Blaise Hunter

Out Of Reach: The Barriers in Our Business

When you think of 'accessibility,' what springs to mind? For me, it's about gender equity, diversity, inclusion, user-friendly technology, a fair and level playing field, wheelchair access, eliminating ableism, and, at its core, being a part of the conversation.

Accessibility means something different to everyone. We all have unique experiences, challenges, abilities, and ideals regarding the world of inclusion, whether at home or in the workplace. A day doesn’t go by that I don’t hear the term ‘accessible.’ This is what frustrates me. We live in a world filled with privileged access and yet there are more obstacles than ever before. Why have we just bought into the word but not the execution of it?

The Superpower Project is about highlighting various challenges or “kryptonites” facing people and helping us neutralize their effect on us. A deadly kyrptonite facing us these days is access for women has become an oxymoron.

The significance of accessibility for women in the workplace cannot be overstated. The path to gender equity and inclusion is paved with the principles of accessibility, touching on various aspects, from wages and diversity to celebrating women and supporting women, as well as promoting gender-diverse initiatives. It's time to recognize that accessibility directly contributes to creating an environment where our voices are heard and valued. Until this happens true accessibility will remain just out of reach. Here are some major barriers we must break through today:

1. Wages & Equal Pay

One of the most pressing issues for women in the workplace is the gender pay gap. On average, women continue to earn less than men for performing the same job. Accessibility, in this context, involves establishing pay transparency and ensuring that women have access to the same opportunities, promotions, and bonuses as their male counterparts. When women are paid fairly, they have the financial freedom to thrive and invest in their personal and professional growth. This also includes encouraging negotiating, teaching strategic and savvy communication skills, and championing emotional intelligence which equip women to harness their full potential and, in the end, be valued for it.

2. Diversity & Inclusivity

Accessibility means removing the barriers that prevent women from entering the workforce or advancing within it. A diverse workforce, including women from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities, brings fresh perspectives, enriches decision-making processes, and fosters creativity.

3. Gender Equity

Accessibility is intertwined with the concept of gender equity. When women have equal opportunities for leadership roles and are not hindered by traditional gender roles or stereotypes, they can excel in their careers. Gender equity entails not just fair treatment but recognizing the potential of women to lead and innovate in their respective fields. Addressing parenting responsibilities and advocating for family-friendly working environments/schedules help bridge the gap with gender bias.

4. Celebrating Women

Accessibility also extends to how we celebrate women in the workplace. Recognition, acknowledgment, and appreciation for women's contributions are essential. Employers can organize events or awards dedicated to women's achievements, highlighting their role in shaping the organization's success. Celebrating women instills a sense of pride and motivates them to continue making a difference. This builds a sustainable framework of community culture.

5. Supporting Women-Led Initiatives

Women-led initiatives and businesses are an essential part of the economic landscape. Accessibility in the workplace means creating an environment where women feel empowered to take on leadership roles, launch their initiatives, and thrive as entrepreneurs. This support not only fosters gender equity but also drives economic growth and innovation.

6. Amplifying Women's Voices

Accessibility doesn't end with hiring and wage parity; it encompasses allowing women's voices to be heard. It's vital to create platforms and spaces where women can speak up, share their ideas, and contribute to important discussions. When women's perspectives are integrated, organizations can make more informed decisions and foster an ethos of respect and understanding.

Accessibility for women in the workplace is a fundamental component of a fair and just society. Ending gender-based violence and sexualized violence, addressing systemic barriers, incorporating gender-based analysis (GBA+) into decision-making, and supporting community action are also central components of creating realistic opportunities for women. The call for accessibility is not just a moral imperative; it's a strategic one. It's time to recognize that empowering women in the workplace benefits us all. Learning about intersectionality and how it affects all of us, both in our work and personal lives, allows us to respectfully communicate with peers, and deepens our understanding of the ways in which diversity, equity, and inclusion are key for us to thrive. Addressing the importance of accessibility in the workplace is even more critical for gender-diverse and underrepresented groups because it's a matter of rectifying historical imbalances and ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. Gender-diverse, and previously unheard groups have faced unique challenges in accessing opportunities, and by prioritizing accessibility, we can:

Remove barriers: Workplaces become more inclusive, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. This diversity brings fresh perspectives, nurtures innovation, and makes organizations better equipped to address a wide range of challenges.

Empower Untapped Talent: Many talented individuals within gender-diverse and underrepresented groups remain underutilized due to systemic barriers. Enhancing accessibility allows organizations to tap into this untapped talent, unlocking their potential and benefiting from their contributions.

Promote Inclusivity: Prioritizing accessibility creates an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported. This inclusivity not only improves job satisfaction but also leads to better team dynamics and collaboration.

Reduce Discrimination: Accessibility measures actively combat discrimination, ensuring that no one is held back due to their gender, race, impairments, or other factors. This reduction in discrimination provokes a more inclusive and harmonious work environment.

Building a barrier-free workplace and world starts with demonstrating heart-led leadership and walking with the vulnerable. What good is access if our culture doesn’t help with the hurdle? I don’t just want the opportunity after the fact or even the praise; I want humanity to assist in breaking down the barriers with me. Not by building more, criticizing the way in which I choose to conquer it, minimizing the size of the obstacle, or even denying its very existence.

What good are all these grants and opportunities to help with one hurdle if they create five more in the process? Access is a mirage, and we must start calling it out. It's vital to ensure that initiatives designed to support individuals don't inadvertently burden us with additional challenges. Effective solutions should be holistic, considering the full spectrum of needs and potential consequences.

Let’s aim to build a culture that comprehends the significance of accessibility and place it at the forefront of our everyday intentions and operations. This is not only to connect with the real world but also to elevate humanity as a whole. This is how we bring accessibility within our reach and ready for the taking.

To learn more visit www.blaisehunter.com