Celebrating Disability Inclusion for More than 70 Years
Reflecting a commitment to a robust and competitive American labor force, the 2019 National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) theme is "The Right Talent, Right Now." Observed each October, NDEAM celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and educates about the value of a workforce inclusive of their skills and talents.
GET NDEAM MATERIALS
ODEP offers a range of resources to help organizations plan NDEAM observances, including not only the official poster in English and Spanish, but also sample articles, a press release, proclamation and social media content.
2019 THEME: THE RIGHT TALENT, RIGHT NOW
The 2019 NDEAM theme emphasizes the essential role people with disabilities play in America's economic success, especially in an era when historically low unemployment and global competition are creating a high demand for skilled talent. Read the news release.
The Right Talent, Right Now: A Conversation About Mental Health in the Workplace
Watch a recording of the U.S. Department of Labor event honoring NDEAM 2019.
The event explored disability inclusion through the lens of workplace policies and practices that support mental health. Speakers and panelists included senior DOL officials and mental health experts.
LEARN ABOUT NDEAM'S HISTORY
NDEAM dates back to 1945, when Congress declared the first week in October "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." Learn more about the origins and evolution of NDEAM and other important events in disability employment history in our timeline.
PLAN NDEAM OBSERVANCES
What can YOU do to celebrate NDEAM? There are lots of ways! To get started, see our 31 Days of NDEAM slideshow or our ideas for: 