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OPA News Release: [05/27/2004]
Contact Name: Michael
Volpe
Phone Number: (202) 693-7909
Secretary Chao
Selects “You’re Hired! Success Knows No Limitations!” as
October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month Theme
WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao has
selected “You’re Hired! Success Knows No Limitations!” as
the official theme for October’s National Disability Employment Awareness
Month.
“The theme, ‘You’re Hired! Success Knows No
Limitations!’ emphasizes one of President George Bush’s top
priorities—economic opportunity through job creation,” said Secretary
Chao. “It also builds upon the accomplishments of the President’s
New Freedom Initiative which has created many opportunities for
persons with disabilities to be fully included in the 21st Century
workforce.”
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) specifically addresses
policies that impact the employment of people with disabilities. It acts as a
catalyst to stimulate new ideas about employment through research and
development, policy analysis, grant awards, technical assistance and the
promotion of effective business practices.
“People with disabilities are an untapped source of both capable
employees and valued customers.” said Roy Grizzard, Assistant Secretary of
Labor for Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). “The theme
‘You’re Hired! Success Knows No Limitations!’ will help
federal, state and local governments, advocacy groups and the business
community plan events and programs throughout October’s National
Disability Employment Awareness Month that highlight the talents and skills of
job seekers and working Americans who have disabilities.”
Background: Public Law 176, enacted by Congress in 1945, designated the
first week in October as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped
Week.” President Harry S. Truman designated the President’s Committee
on Employment of People with Disabilities to carry out the law. Congress
changed the name to “National Disability Employment Awareness Month”
in 1988. The responsibility for leading the nationwide recognition was
transferred to ODEP in 2001.
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