Lions Industries celebrates deaf and blind employees during awareness month
Lions Industries for the Blind celebrated its deaf and blind employees on October 9, recognizing their contributions during National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The event, held at their facility, coincided with World Sight Day and highlighted the significance of workplace inclusion for employees with disabilities.
Sharon Axelberg, Executive Director at Lions Industries, who led the event, opened the ceremony by acknowledging the importance of recognizing employees with disabilities. “Today, we honor the incredible contributions of our deaf, blind, and visually impaired employees,” Axelberg said, emphasizing the value they bring to the workplace.
During the celebration, Axelberg shared a portion of President Joe Biden’s proclamation for National Disability Employment Awareness Month. “America’s economy is stronger when every American has an opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully,” she quoted from the President’s message, which called for greater inclusion of workers with disabilities in all sectors.
Axelberg also took the opportunity to honor Jerry Howard, an employee who worked at Lions Industries for 32 years before his recent retirement. She noted that it was fitting to celebrate his contributions during National Disability Employment Awareness Month. “We are glad to have this day to recognize Jerry and his work,” she said.
The event wasn’t only about recognizing individual employees, but also about raising awareness. Axelberg reminded attendees that disabilities often remain invisible, but that doesn’t lessen their impact. "A lot of people in our country live with disabilities, but many do not share them openly. I want to thank you for sharing your disabilities with me and allowing me to share mine with you," she said.
Axelberg urged the audience to continue advocating for accessibility and inclusion, concluding with an impactful statement: “We honor you, we love you, and today, we celebrate you along with others.” The event also included a luncheon and moments of recognition for the company's visually impaired and deaf-blind employees.
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