This article was written by Madeline Mancini, Sports Managment Intern for SportsAbility Alliance.

The History of National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In 1945, congress enacted a law that declared that the first week in October was “National Employ the Physically Handicapped week.” The declaration was part of an organized effort to educate the public about issues surrounding disabilities and employment. By 1988, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. During this time, congress also expanded the week to the entire month of October and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). 

The NDEAM was established to shine a spotlight on the varied contributions of individuals with disabilities to the workforce and economy of the United States.

 

The NDEAM was established to shine a spotlight on the varied contributions of individuals with disabilities to the workforce and economy of the United States. The month of October celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities by showcasing supportive and inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees. 

Ways to recognize NDEAM at work:
One of the ways to recognize this month at work is to discuss the importance of disability inclusion. Disability inclusion can be defined as “including people with disabilities in everyday activities and encouraging them to have roles similar to their peers who do not have a disability.” Make your discussions inclusive, virtual attendance options, recordings, video captions and maybe have sign language interpreters.

Another way companies can recognize this month is to feature a speaker or performer with a disability, let the individual share their personal disability story or creative work to generate interest. Show that people with disabilities can be a part of anyone’s life!

Lastly, you can wear the color orange in support of those with disabilities. By bringing people together it increases their understanding of people with disabilities.