October DEIB Recognition and Celebration

In the month of October, we honor National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM); LGBTQ+ History Month; and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, on October 11.

These markers of struggle and progress offer us an opportunity to reflect on our common cause of creating a more equitable and inclusive society and to celebrate with the members of our SEO family who represent these communities. We know that our mission is better served, and our impact amplified, by the diversity of our team.

Below is more information on each of the important causes recognized in October. We invite you to pause and reflect on ways that you can continue to champion and serve as an ally for members of these communities in work and beyond. Please join me in honoring the important milestones and contributions of people with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, and Indigenous People this month.

*            *            *

This year’s theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month is America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion. More information on ways to learn about and observe NDEAM can be found here. You can also view the Netflix film Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution as a way to go deeper in understanding the struggle for those with disabilities to gain access and opportunity to the right for employment and inclusion.

LGBTQ+ History Month was established in 1994 to celebrate and teach gay and lesbian history. The month-long celebration recognizes the achievements of 31 members of the LGBTQ+ community, who serve as role models and civil rights leaders. LGBTQ+ History Month is celebrated in October to recognize National Coming Out Day on October 11. More information on LGBTQ+ History Month and a list of the historical figures being celebrated can be found here.

Finally, on Monday, October 11, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. SEO provides a day off for the team and participants to honor the achievements, recognize the sacrifices, and celebrate the culture and history of Indigenous People. You can find more information here on how to celebrate and honor this day with your friends, family, and community.