October is Disability Awareness Month

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 17:58:55 -0400
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National Disability Awareness Month is a national campaign held in October that raises awareness about issues for people with disabilities, and celebrates the many and varied contributions of Americans with disabilities.

NDAM's roots go 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 various types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to "National Disability Awareness Month."

Americans with disabilities make up almost one-fifth of our population. Since the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by the 41st Present George H.W. Bush on July 26th 1990. There have been huge strides in accessibility and inclusion. People with disabilities still face discrimination and lack of understanding.

However, the fight is not done.

The Presidential Proclamation of 2015 states: “America is at its strongest when we harness the talents and celebrate the distinct gifts of all our people. This October, as we observe the 70th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, let us pay tribute to all who fought for better laws, demanded better treatment, and overcome ignorance and indifference to make our Nation more perfect. In their honor, and for the betterment of generations of Americans to come, let us continue the work of removing obstacles to employment so every American has the chance to develop their skills and make their unique mark on the world we share.”

Disability Awareness Events:

Oct 1 All Day MP 212 - Open House with Office Accessibility & Disability Services

Oct 7 at Noon, MP 222 - Mission Possible! Disability & Accessibility Scavenger Hunt

Oct 14 at Noon, Online: Make Your PDFs Accessible

Oct 23 at Noon, UC 310 - Campus Accessibility Project Update and Discussion

Oct 25 at Noon, Online - Make Your PDFs Accessible

Oct 30 at Noon, Sondheim - Trick or Treat: Accessibility Walk, Tap, and Roll

Oct 31 at 11:30 ENG 102 Make Your Word Documents Accessible

We hope to see you there!