Board declares October 2021 as Disability Employment Awareness Month
The board of commissioners has proclaimed October 2021 as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Ramsey County. Workplaces that welcome the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive and vibrant community with a strong economy. The county looks forward to continued expansion of employment opportunities for the greater acceptance of disabled persons in the competitive labor market.
Commissioner McGuire read the proclamation. Program representative Lynne Kincaid and other county employees offered remarks.
The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces 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 all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.