October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Department of Services for the Blind supports community events state-wide
(Seattle, WA) — September 30, 2015 — The
Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) is joining in commemoration of
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign
that takes place each October. The purpose of National Disability Employment
Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate
the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. This
year's theme is "My disability is one part of who I am."
The history of National Disability Employment
Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the
first week in October each year "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.
Reflecting this year's theme, throughout the
month, DSB will be engaging in activities to educate the community on
disability employment issues and its commitment to an inclusive work culture.
These efforts include hosting Open Houses in Lacey, Seattle, Tacoma, and
Vancouver; promoting White Cane Safety Day proclamations at city council
meetings; and participating in the Spokane Tribe of Indians Disability Access
and Employment Fair, the Access Tri-Cities: 2nd Annual "Building Bridges and
Breaking Down Barriers" Job Fair, and the Access Spokane Expo. More
information and event times can be found at www.dsb.wa.gov.
"This year's theme encapsulates the
important message that people with disabilities are just that — people,"
said Jennifer Sheehy, acting assistant secretary of labor for disability employment
policy. "And like all people, we are the sum of many parts, including our
work experiences. Disability is an important perspective we bring to the table,
but, of course, it's not the only one."
Employers and employees in all industries
can learn more about National Disability Employment Awareness Month by visiting
the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind at www.dsb.wa.gov or the U.S. Department of Labor
at www.dol.gov/ndeam.