When Anita McDonald, Onboarding Coordinator, and Miranda Pachal, Manager of Learning Operations, came together to discuss their own disabilities, they didn’t expect that conversation would turn into an opportunity to create a forum at CN for people with visible and non-visible disabilities.
As Co-chairs of CN’s A.D.A.P.T. (Allies of DiverseABILITY Partnering Together) Employee Resource Group (ERG) launched in the fall of 2022, Anita and Miranda are focusing on creating a more inclusive workplace and increasing awareness through open dialogue and education on issues important to people with visible and non-visible disabilities.
Bringing Visibility to Non-Visible Disabilities
While some disabilities are obvious — like those where individuals use mobility aids, hearing processors, or assistive technology, the ERG is bringing greater attention to the fact that most disabilities are hidden.
“Non-visible disabilities can include any physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication, or sensory impairment,” explains Miranda. “They can range from depression and burn-out, to dyslexia, heart problems, diabetes, asthma or severe back problems.”
Partnering With Project LIFE and Specialisterne
In addition to creating a more inclusive workplace through ERGs, CN has been working with Project LIFE to help students with additional needs achieve future independence and employment as they transition to adulthood. CN also partners with Specialisterne to help candidates diagnosed on the autism spectrum to find meaningful employment.
Through ongoing events, storytelling, networking sessions and more, Miranda, Anita and the rest of the A.D.A.P.T. ERG Steering Committee, hope to expand the conversation around inclusion and eliminate the stereotypes that have created barriers in the past for people with disabilities.
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Meet the A.D.A.P.T. Steering Committee
Marlene Puffer
A.D.A.P.T. Executive Sponsor
President and Chief Executive Officer
CN Investment Division
Miranda Pachal
A.D.A.P.T. Co-chair
Manager of Learning Operations
Anita McDonald
A.D.A.P.T. Co-chair
Onboarding Coordinator
Melanie Martens
A.D.A.P.T. Steering Committee
Senior Manager.
Dispute Resolutions and Labour Standards
Maria Salvati
A.D.A.P.T. Steering Committee
Manager, Compliance and Reporting Canada
Milan Sladic
A.D.A.P.T. Steering Committee
Intern Labour Relations
Chris Houle
A.D.A.P.T. Steering Committee
HR Business Partner