How to Participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, NDEAM is an annual initiative led by the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). Its purpose is to raise awareness about employment issues affecting individuals with disabilities, celebrate their contributions, and highlight inclusive employment practices.
History
NDEAM was established in 1945 when Congress designated the first “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week” in October. In 1962, the term “physically” was removed to encompass individuals with all types of disabilities. By 1988, the observance was extended to a full month, and in 2001, ODEP took over its management.
NDEAM 2025 Theme
The theme for NDEAM 2025, per the U.S. Department of Labor, will focus on recognizing the value and talent that American workers with disabilities bring to our workplaces and economy, celebrating their achievements both past and present. This year’s official theme is: Celebrating Value and Talent.
Why NDEAM Matters Now
A recent bulletin from the Ohio Association of People Supporting Employment First highlights two significant bills—HB 225 and SB 142—designed to assist individuals with disabilities in obtaining fair pay and meaningful employment in the community. These bills also offer tax incentives to businesses that purchase from nonprofits employing workers with disabilities.
What Legislators Can Do During NDEAM
– Visit local workplaces in your district where individuals with disabilities are employed to see firsthand how fair pay and community engagement impact lives.
– Support Ohio HB 225, the “Ohio Employment First and Greater Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act,” which aims to phase out subminimum wage for individuals with disabilities by transitioning employers to competitive integrated employment over five years and establishing a task force to facilitate this transition, per a summary of the bill found here.
– Back Ohio Senate Bill SB 142, which seeks to eliminate subminimum wage employment by prohibiting new licenses for such positions and setting a five-year phase-out period for existing licenses. This bill also includes tax credits for businesses purchasing from nonprofits that employ people with disabilities and promotes competitive, integrated employment.
– Share success stories from your district to illustrate how individuals with disabilities are enriching Ohio’s workforce, according to a bill summary found here.
– Ensure future employment legislation includes provisions for individuals with disabilities.
Why This Helps Ohio
– Individuals with disabilities and their families desire to work and make contributions.
– Fair wages reduce reliance on public benefits and enhance community spending.
– Businesses gain from dedicated employees and innovative ideas.
– Nonprofits that hire individuals with disabilities receive support to continue their valuable work.
What Can Workers with Disabilities Do During NDEAM
Advocate for Inclusion
Share your experiences on social media or within your organization to raise awareness and foster a more inclusive work environment.
Join or Form Groups
Participate in employee resource groups (ERGs) focused on disability or create your own network to cultivate community and drive progress.
Provide Feedback
Review your company’s disability policies and processes to identify areas for improvement, suggesting solutions like digital accessibility or necessary physical modifications.
Seek Opportunities
Take advantage of NDEAM events such as mentoring programs or webinars to expand your professional network and discover new opportunities for growth and development.
Educate Others
Contribute to discussions or workshops on disability etiquette and the importance of reasonable accommodations to nurture a more supportive workplace culture.