“Each October, we observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month to honor the contributions of people with disabilities to our country and to recommit to eliminating barriers in employment. This year’s theme ‘Disability: Part of the Equity Equation’ acknowledges the vital role that people with disabilities play in creating a strong workforce that reflects the diversity of American society.” [1]
“NDEAM is led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), but its true spirit lies in the many observances held at the grassroots level across the nation every year. The Campaign for Disability Employment encourages organizations of all sizes and in all industries to participate in NDEAM.” [2]
“National Disability Employment Awareness Month reminds us of the valued contributions people with disabilities make in our nation’s workplaces, and the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 marks a major milestone in our nation’s ongoing quest to advance access and equity for all Americans,” said Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy Taryn M. Williams.” [3]
“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26 percent of adults in the United States, or 61 million people, have a disability.” [1]
“Employment is an important part of community inclusion for people with disabilities. Competitive, integrated employment (CIE) – working in the community, alongside people with and without disabilities, at competitive wages – offers a direct pathway to greater independence and self-sufficiency for people with disabilities. Employers can also benefit by having a larger and more diverse talent pool when hiring.” [4]
How to celebrate NDEAM?
1) Discuss the importance of disability inclusion.
Consider convening a panel of leaders, experts, employees with disabilities, caregivers and allies to discuss the importance of disability inclusion at work.” [5]
2) Share your disability employment story and help someone share theirs.
“Let’s help more people understand the value that people with disabilities bring to the workforce. If you have a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor with a disability who is employed, encourage them to share their story. We want as many people to join the conversation as possible! Share your stories on social media using #NDEAM or even reach out to your local news.” [6]
3) Host a disability awareness and etiquette session.
“Disability awareness and etiquette sessions can help employees increase their understanding of people with disabilities, uncover their misconceptions and biases and learn specific strategies for interacting with people with disabilities.” [5]
4) Review your hiring process.
“Job descriptions, interview questions and hiring practices that use inclusive language and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are critical to improving disability inclusion, accessibility and employment outcomes.” [4]
5) Donate to organizations that actively promote workforce inclusion for people with disabilities.
Horizon Project provides supports and opportunities for personal growth, integration, and independence to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and professional development for the people who support them.
For over 40 years, Horizon Project has served some of our region’s most vulnerable citizens. And over the decades, the people of Horizon have made a difference – every day – quietly, steadily, and with fierce commitment. Support our work!
Contact us for more information:
This October, we celebrate the differences that make each of us unique as we build diverse, inclusive workplaces where all employees, including workers with disabilities, are recognized and fully accepted.
Let’s demonstrate that disabilities can be a part of anyone’s life, regardless of their profession or background.
Resources
[1] https://www.eeoc.gov/national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2022