October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and this year’s theme is “America’s Workforce - Empowering All.” As the Nation's largest employer, the Federal Government has a special responsibility to lead by example to include people with disabilities in the workforce, and foster a disability-friendly work culture.
To highlight the achievements of American workers with disabilities, the president released an official proclamation recognizing October as National Disability Awareness Month.
The proclamation states,
[This month], we renew our commitment to creating an environment of opportunity for all Americans and educating people about disability employment issues.
Earlier this year, the unemployment rate for Americans with disabilities reached the lowest rate ever recorded.
The proclamation highlights steps the administration has taken to addresses disability employment issues, which include “encouraging those with disabilities to engage in the workforce, providing greater opportunities for their involvement, and preventing workplace injuries from occurring,” and describes the administration’s commitment to creating opportunities for Americans with disabilities across the workforce.
OPM is proud to mark 73 years since President Truman approved a Congressional Resolution declaring the first week in October “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 program to “National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).”
Today, NDEAM celebrates disability inclusion and the contributions made to this country by workers with disabilities. This month, we celebrate what is possible. This month, we also focus on education and awareness – to remind everyone of the value of the skills and talents workers with disabilities bring to communities everywhere.
OPM’s community of employees with disabilities contributes much to this agency. Please take a moment to learn about this community here: http://theo.opm.gov/FedsWithDisabilities/index.aspx.