National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is an annual event in the United States that takes place every October. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities and to educate about the value of a workforce inclusive of their skills and talents.

History

The origins of National Disability Employment Awareness Month can be traced back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year as "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities.

In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to "National Disability Employment Awareness Month." This change reflected the growing movement to recognize the capabilities of people with disabilities and the importance of their full integration into the workforce.

Purpose

The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to raise awareness about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. It aims to promote a more inclusive workforce, where the skills and talents of people with disabilities are recognized and utilized.

Activities

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, various activities are organized by employers, schools, and community organizations. These activities may include workshops, seminars, and job fairs designed to educate the public about disability employment issues and to highlight the contributions of workers with disabilities.

Employers are encouraged to participate by hosting events, implementing disability-friendly policies, and promoting an inclusive workplace culture. Schools and educational institutions may also engage in activities that educate students about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workforce.

Themes

Each year, the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) within the U.S. Department of Labor announces a theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This theme serves as a unifying message that helps to guide the activities and events of the month. Past themes have included messages such as "Inclusion Drives Innovation" and "America's Workforce: Empowering All."

Significance

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is significant because it highlights the importance of including people with disabilities in the workforce. It serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made in disability employment and the work that still needs to be done to ensure equal opportunities for all workers.

See Also

• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
• Disability rights movement
• Office of Disability Employment Policy

External Links

• [U.S. Department of Labor - Office of Disability Employment Policy](https://www.dol.gov/odep/)

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