Air Force observes National Disability Employment Awareness month

  • Published
  • Air Force Equal Opportunity Office
Washington, D.C. --  President Barack Obama has declared October as National Disability Employment Awareness month stating that: "All Americans are entitled to an accessible workplace, a level playing field and the same privileges, pursuits and opportunities as any of their family, friends and neighbors. This month, let us rededicate ourselves to bringing down barriers and rising up aspirations for all our people, regardless of disability, so we may share in a brighter future together."

In response, the Air Force Equal Opportunity office announced its participation in National Disability Employment Awareness month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October and is lead by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy. The purpose is to educate people about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities.

The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October of each year as "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.

"Employers who ensure that inclusive workplace policies and practices are woven into the fabric and culture of the organization create an environment that encourages all workers, including those of us with disabilities, to work to their full capacity and contribute fully to the organization's success," said Kathy Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy.

This year's theme is "A Strong Workforce is an Inclusive Workforce: What Can You Do?"

Reflecting this year's theme, throughout the month, the Air Force and the Employees with Disabilities Resource Group will be engaging in a variety of activities to educate employees on disability employment issues and the role they play in fostering a disability-friendly work culture.

"HQ USAF/A1Q and the Employees with Disabilities Resource Group are proud to be a part of this year's National Disability Employment Awareness month," said Kendra Duckworth, Air Force Disability program manager. "We want to spread the important message that a strong workforce is one inclusive of the skills and talents of all individuals, including individuals with disabilities."

Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness month and ways to promote its messages during October and throughout the year by visiting www.dol.gov/odep/.