Diversity Corner
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October: Breast Cancer Awareness & Inclusive Business Travel
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and support individuals and families impacted by breast cancer.
For Travel Managers, it is also an opportunity to look at business travel through a DEI lens. Employees may be balancing medical appointments, treatment, caregiving responsibilities, or recovery while still managing work and travel commitments.
An inclusive travel program recognizes that travelers have different needs and circumstances. Providing flexibility, privacy, accessibility, and compassionate support can make business travel more manageable for employees navigating challenging life experiences.
Supporting Employees Through Travel
Travel Managers can help create a more inclusive experience by ensuring employees have access to:
- Flexible travel options when schedules change unexpectedly.
- Accessible hotel rooms and transportation when needed.
- Clear processes for requesting accommodations without unnecessary disclosure of personal information.
- Support for caregivers who may have responsibilities at home.
- Travel assistance and resources that are easy to find and understand.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that every employee’s experience is different. DEI is about recognizing those differences and creating policies that give people the flexibility and support they need to succeed.
October DEI Travel Manager Tips
1. Review your travel policies
Look for opportunities to build in flexibility for medical needs, caregiving, and unexpected changes.
2. Make accommodations easy to access
Employees should know how to request accessible rooms, transportation, or other travel support.
3. Protect employee privacy
Create processes that allow travelers to receive support without having to repeatedly share personal medical information.
4. Communicate available resources
Use October as a reminder to highlight employee assistance programs, benefits, and travel-support resources.
5. Lead with empathy
A little flexibility and understanding can make a significant difference in an employee’s travel experience.
