EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT DEI

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH: AUTISM IN THE WORKPLACE

By Marilex Santiago, DEI Leader & Administrative Coordinator

In the month of April, we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month, also known as World Autism Month. It aims to celebrate and promote acceptance for the condition which occurs in 1 of every 54 children in the US as of 2020. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is de ned by Autism Speaks as “a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.”

Let’s learn why adults with autism struggle to nd employment and how employers can support employees who have autism.

Why do Adults with Autism Struggle to Find Employment?

Studies show that as many as 90% of adults with autism are either underemployed or unemployed. One of the main reasons why adults with autism have trouble nding employment is due to a lack of “soft skills” which include people, social, communication, and time management skills. The absence of these soft skills often causes adults with autism to be overlooked during the interview process. Many employers don’t fully understand ASD and also aren’t aware of the positives employees with autism can bring to their company.

Where People with Autism Shine

Adults with autism bring a lot to the table and with a few accommodations and support are an asset in the workplace. These shining characteristics of autism include:

• Structure and routine

• Accuracy and attention to detail

• Creativity, perspective and passion

• Positivity and personality

Tips for Supporting Coworkers with Autism:

• Consider a one-day job trial in addition to an interview.

• Communicate clearly and when possible, put assignments in writing and make deadlines clear.

• Provide Accommodations such as dim lighting or sunglasses, headphones or ear plugs, and dget tools.

• Have a quiet space available away from sensory distractions.

• Educate yourself and your team to break down barriers and reduce bias.

• Provide regular feedback and check-ins for employees to grow. Be consistent, constructive, and kind!

An inclusive workplace starts with education and creating an environment for all people to thrive. If you are diagnosed with autism or would like to better support a colleague with autism, please feel free to reach out to our HR department or myself, Marilex Santiago, for guidance on accommodations.

April

Autism Awareness Month April 1-30

Stress Awareness Month April 1-30

Women’s Self Defense Class April 5 - Wethers eld

Women’s Self Defense Class April 6 - Branford

Earth Day April 22

Administrative Professionals’ Day April 26

May

Asian American & Paci c Islander May 1-31 Heritage Month

Mental Health Awareness Month May 1-31

#GetMoving Level Up Challenge May 1-31

Energage Employee Survey May 10-22