Access to Good Jobs for ALL
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM): Access to Good Jobs for All
October is recognized as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, as specified by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP).
The History of NDEAM
The origins of National Disability Employment Awareness Month date back to the aftermath of World War II. In response to the large number of disabled veterans returning from the war, Congress passed a resolution – Public Law 176 – declaring the first week of October as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” The initial goal was to educate the public about the employment needs and contributions of disabled people, particularly those who became disabled while serving in the military.
In 1962, the word “physically” was dropped from the name to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities, not just physical ones.
Over 25 years later, in 1988, Congress extended the celebration from one week to one month, renaming it to be “National Disability Employment Awareness Month.”
In 2005, the Office of Disability Employment Policy began creating and marketing a yearly theme for NDEAM to increase engagement as well as awareness for more specific concerns within the general topic of Disability Employment.
2024 Theme: Access to Good Jobs for All
The theme for NDEAM 2024 is Access to Good Jobs for All, which aims to showcase the commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities of all kinds have access to good jobs, every month of every year.
Disabled individuals have just as much to offer the workforce as non-disabled individuals. It is essential that the opportunities available to non-disabled people are also extended with the proper accommodations to the disabled. In making sure that disabled people have access to good jobs, there are benefits to both the workplace and the disabled individual. There is equality and fairness in such opportunities. Everyone deserves the chance to work and contribute to society and to be treated with respect and dignity.
Employment provides degrees of financial independence and reduces reliance on social assistance. For those who need it, this empowers individuals to live more self-sufficient lives and to make choices that align with their personal and professional goals. Including disabled people in the workforce also brings diverse perspectives and problem-solving approaches to the table. Diversity leads to innovation and creativity and benefits more than just any one organization. Ultimately, it enriches our society and allows for the breaking down of stereotypes. When disabled people are visible in the workplace, their presence challenges outdated and harmful misconceptions that we all need to strive to eliminate.
Together, we can work to keep the economy strong and ensure that there is equal opportunity offered to all people across all forms of employment.
Ways for Non-Disabled People to Support NDEAM
Everyone can support NDEAM in many ways, whether they are disabled or not. One of the main ways that anyone can support NDEAM is by promoting the message behind the celebration and by educating themselves on its importance. Disabled people deserve to have supportive and fulfilling jobs!
The disabled community has a rich history of incredible contributions to society, and supporting them in pursuing and holding jobs not only assists in their independence, but ensures that they continue to have the opportunity to make contributions.
Non-disabled individuals can take the time to learn more about what it means to foster an inclusive and accommodating workplace for everyone, including those with disabilities. This can include reading, watching, and listening to disabled individuals’ stories, experiences, and needs, learning about ways to support individuals with disabilities in your specific workplace, and pursuing a greater understanding of the needs of disabled people, both inside and outside the work environment. Take a little time to highlight the importance of this celebration. Implement accessibility initiatives, plan inclusive activities, organize events, and provide educational resources to non-disabled individuals that promote understanding and inclusivity. Another thing to consider are the ways in which disability-owned businesses can be supported and magnified. Be an ally in all things – volunteer, participate, and show support in all the ways that you are able.
It is also important to understand that not every disability is visible. Even invisible disabilities can have an impact on the work individuals are able to do and the accommodations they may need in the workplace. For example, someone may have chronic migraines that require them to be able to work remotely from time to time. They may also need to have alternative lighting options in their work areas, or even have assistive technology like adaptive earplugs to allow them to work most effectively. No matter the visibility level of one's disability, these should be respected, and if required, accommodated to the best of the employer’s ability.
Disability Employment Resources
National
U.S. Department of Labor
Office of Disability Employment Policy
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Americans with Disabilities Act
Department of Human Resources
Alabama
Alabama Department of Human Resources
Association for Persons Supporting Employment First – Alabama Chapter
Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program
Disability Rights & Resources
Alabama Disability Action Coalition
Alabama Department of Mental Health – Office of Supported Employment
