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Deaf and Disabilities Awareness group has new name

Group expands its focus

The Deaf Awareness Group (DAG) has converted its overall emphasis to a broader disabilities focus and changed its name to the Deaf and Disabilities Awareness Group (DDAG).

In addition to considering issues affecting deaf and hard-of-hearing employees, the DDAG is broadening its scope to also consider issues affecting employees and contract workers with disability or impairment as they relate to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

"To make this change successful, we need members who are willing to work on issues that affect a broader spectrum of employees. The current DDAG members need your help in identifying and soliciting workers who can help us make the Laboratory a more accessible, employee-friendly workplace," said Lisa Gutierrez, Diversity (DVO) Office leader.

The DDAG, which operates under the auspices of the Diversity Office, has taken on a huge challenge. The Disabilities Services Coordinator from the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) is also working with the DDAG as it enlarges its focus.

Among the group's previous achievements, the Deaf Awareness Group worked with the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO), Human Resources (HR) Division and the Executive Board to add hearing aid benefits to the Lab's health plan for all Laboratory employees. This benefit was added to the package when United Healthcare became Los Alamos' health-care provider this year.

"This group has worked to make a difference for all Laboratory employees, and I am excited about the possibilities as it takes on greater responsibilities," said Amy Sahota, OEO director. "DDAG members do not need to be deaf, hard of hearing, or have a disability. Anyone interested in issues relating to the Americans with Disabilities Act is welcome to join the group," she said.

Laboratory employees interested in serving on the DDAG or any of the Lab's diversity working groups, or the Diversity/Affirmative Board should submit an application by the end of the workday today.

The nomination form can be found at www.lanl.gov/source/orgs/dvo/ online, or by contacting Danny Valdez of DVO at 5-7215 or writing to dlvaldez@lanl.gov by electronic mail.

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