National Disability Employment Awareness Month

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 or the U.S. Department of Labor at www.dol.gov/ndeam.