Paving the Way for Disability Inclusion through Hospitality Opportunities
In honor of the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we share our sixth episode of "My Call for Change" series, spotlighting our commitment to ensuring people with disabilities feel welcome and included in the workplace.
At Accor, our commitment towards the inclusion of people with disabilities is deeply woven into our values and is brought to life throughout the year and on a daily basis. In 2015, we signed the Global Business and Disability Charter of the International Labor Organization (ILO), and we are also a member of the “Valuable 500” global initiative. Most recently, our partnership with Handiwork has opened doors to valuable opportunities, enabling individuals with disabilities to explore and thrive within the hospitality industry.
Through these initiatives, we not only aim to change perceptions but also to facilitate meaningful recruitment and professional development for all our team members with disabilities. At Accor, we believe that fostering an inclusive environment enriches our collective growth and success, and curate events held across the globe to raise awareness among our teams. Accor World Duo Days is a shining example of this effort.
Grace Xiang reflects on how Duo Days has positively impacted guests and Heartists® alike in Greater China
Grace Xiang, Senior Vice President of Talent & Culture at Accor Greater China and a 20-year team member, has not only witnessed the Group’s culture of inclusion flourish throughout her career, but she has actively overseen Accor Greater China’s participation in several DE&I initiatives. The regional teams have most notably responded to the Group’s call to participate in the Accor World Duo Days, a program that, in partnership with local associations, nonprofit organizations and schools, invites people with disabilities for a day to explore hotel roles, demonstrating that hospitality is open and accessible to all.
As part of the 2022 Duo Days program, Accor partnered with “beYoureyeS” to welcome visually impaired individuals to test out various hospitality positions. Hotel team members prepared by experiencing life without sight, blindfolded and guided by coworkers ౼ an exercise that encouraged trust and understanding while also teaching them how to make guests feel comfortable and safe.
Over the past seven years, Accor Greater China has hosted 500 events, engaging nearly 8,400 individuals with disabilities and 25,000 team members. Xiang notes that the initiative is deeply ingrained in the team members’ lives, who remain inspired to continuously evolve it. This commitment reflects the region’s dedication to partnerships and creating a more inclusive, equitable workplace.
About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group
Accor is a world leading hospitality group offering experiences across more than 110 countries, with over 5,600 properties, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities or flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on Euronext Paris (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
