About

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In October, Americans observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month by paying tribute to the accomplishments of the men and women with disabilities whose work helps keep the nation’s economy strong and by reaffirming their commitment to ensure equal opportunity for all citizens.

This effort to educate the public about the issues related to disability and employment began in 1945, when Congress enacted Public Law 176, declaring the first week of October 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. Some 25 years later, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Executive and Legislative Documents

The Law Library of Congress has compiled guides to commemorative observations, including a comprehensive inventory of the Public Laws, Presidential Proclamations and congressional resolutions (https://ask.loc.gov/law/faq/341475) related to Disability Employment Awareness Month.

About This Year's Theme

Reflecting the important role that different perspectives play in workforce success, this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) theme is " Inclusion Drives Innovation."

For additional details visit the Office of Disability Employment Policy Website

Images Used On This Site

Home Page

• Library employee feels carving of Dr. Hayden's name in the Jefferson Building.
  Touch History Tour
  Photographer: Travis Painter (June 15, 2017)
• August Shitama presents to an audience about his passion for reading.
  27th Anniversary of the ADA
  Photographer: Shawn Miller (June 26, 2017)
• Gallaudet University President Roberta Cordano presents about past and current achievements in the deaf community.
  27th Anniversary of the ADA
  Photographer: Shawn Miller (June 26, 2017)

About Page

• Blind youngsters display ability before Senate Committee. Washington, D.C. April 9, 1937...
  ( https://www.loc.gov/item/hec2009009227/)

People Page

• Rehabilitation hearing. The House Committee on Education met today in the House Caucus room to consider a bill presented by Mr. Reed of New…
  ( https://www.loc.gov/resource/hec.35675/)

For Teachers Page

• Weavers at Work
  ( https://www.loc.gov/resource/ggbain.09146/)

Resources Page

• Marilyn Church. Deaf Juror, February 17, 1984. Colored pencil, pastel, graphite, and porous point pen on ochre paper. Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress (013.00.00)
  LC-DIG-ppmsca-50997 © Marilyn Church. Gift of the family of Marilyn Church. Used by Permission of Marilyn Church.
  ( https://www.loc.gov/exhibitions/drawing-justice-courtroom-illustrations/online-exhibition/significant-and-landmark-cases/man-who-is-deaf-seeks-to-serve-on-a-jury/)