National Disability Employment Awareness Month
This year marks not only the 75th observance of NDEAM, but also the 30th anniversary of the ADA. Both milestones are being commemorated with a range of events and activities centered on the theme: "Increasing Access and Opportunity."
Have you heard the news? The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced that “Increasing Access and Opportunity” is the 2020 theme for October’s annual observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
This year is the nation’s 75th observance of NDEAM, which is administered by DOL’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), which funds the Campaign for Disability Employment (CDE). The observance culminates the Department’s commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“Ensuring that America’s workplaces continue to include and accommodate people with disabilities will be an important part of our economic rebound,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia. “Looking ahead, the Department will remain focused on the policies that led to a strong economy and record-low unemployment rates for persons with disabilities prior to the pandemic. A vigorous economic rebound and job growth will, alongside the Americans with Disabilities Act, increase access and opportunity for Americans with disabilities.”
“People with disabilities are experienced problem solvers with a proven ability to adapt,” said Office of Disability Employment Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Jennifer Sheehy. “Now more than ever, flexibility is important for both workers and employers. National Disability Employment Awareness Month celebrates the ingenuity people with disabilities bring to America’s workplaces.”
Each October, NDEAM celebrates America’s workers with disabilities and reminds employers of the importance of inclusive hiring practices. Employers of any size, in any industry—as well as community organizations, advocacy groups and schools—are encouraged to participate.
For more information about NDEAM, visit www.dol.gov/ndeam. The website also features the 2020 NDEAM poster, which highlights the ADA’s 30th anniversary and is available for mail order in both English and Spanish.
