October 1st marks the beginning of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NDEAM was established in 1945 by President Truman as the first national call for disabled people to access all the opportunities and benefits that working allowed.
During NDEAM, NACDD celebrates the contributions to our workplaces, and community made by people with I/DD and continues to work for equal opportunity for all people. It has been more than 80 years since the Fair Labor Standards Act was passed, which included Section 14(c) — and disabled people are still being paid a subminimum wage in some states. NACDD supports competitive, integrated employment for people with disabilities.
This month, let us celebrate workers with disabilities who make our communities and workforce stronger. Let us continue the legacy of generations of disability rights activists and advocates who have fought for equal employment opportunities, integrated workplaces, and equal pay for equal work.
