October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities and to promote inclusive employment practices across the country. While many celebrate NDEAM today, its roots stretch back eight decades and reflect a long journey of advocacy, policy, and progress.
It Began in 1945
After World War II, thousands of veterans returned home with physical disabilities limited job prospects.There were limited programs to support them. In response, Congress declared the first week of October as National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week in 1945. This observance opened the door to meaningful conversations about capability, dignity, and opportunity.
Visionaries like Dr. Henry Viscardi, founder of the Viscardi Center and advisor to multiple U.S. presidents, were instrumental in driving these early efforts.
Expanding the Vision: 1960s to 1980s
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy issued Executive Order 10994, broadening the observance to include people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This marked a shift in national awareness from focusing only on physical barriers to recognizing a full spectrum of abilities.
The 1970s brought significant legal strides:
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The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 introduced Section 504, the first civil rights protection for people with disabilities.
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In 1975, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guaranteed free and appropriate public education for all children.
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan officially renamed the observance to National Disability Employment Awareness Month and emphasized the use of respectful, people-first language through Executive Order 12640.
A Civil Rights Milestone: The ADA
In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, representing a defining moment in the disability rights movement. The ADA banned discrimination in employment, public access, and transportation, dramatically expanding opportunities for people with disabilities.
Passage of the ADA followed years of advocacy, including the powerful Capitol Crawl protest and leadership from figures like Justin Dart Jr., Lex Frieden, and Patricia Wright. Lawmakers, including Senators Tom Harkin, Ted Kennedy, and Bob Dole, and Congressman Tony Coelho, helped turn that movement into lasting legislation.
Building a More Inclusive Workforce: 2000s to Today
Progress has continued into the 21st century. Highlights include:
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The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (2014) promotes competitive, integrated employment.
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The ABLE Act (2014) allows people with disabilities to save money without jeopardizing public benefits.
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Updates to Section 503 require federal contractors to recruit and retain people with disabilities actively.
Recent milestones have further advanced this work:
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Executive Order 14095 (2023): Supporting Direct Support Professionals and Community-Based Services.
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ADA Web Accessibility Rules (2023): Ensuring government websites are accessible to all.
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SSA Eligibility Reforms (2024): Making it easier for people with disabilities to work while retaining benefits.
And in 2025, the nation will celebrate 80 years of NDEAM—a movement that began with returning veterans and has grown to champion inclusion in every sector.
Looking Forward
The history of NDEAM reminds us that inclusive employment doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of decades of effort, courage, and action. As we reflect this October, we honor the past while continuing to build a more inclusive future.
