Life can change in an instant. A disability, whether through injury, illness, or a chronic condition, can affect anyone. Navigating the workplace with a disability brings unique challenges, like deciding to disclose a disability or requesting an accommodation, but also unique opportunities for advocacy and inclusion.
Employees with disabilities make a meaningful impact on the workforce, and Disability Employment Awareness Month stands to celebrate this influence.
History of Disability Employment Awareness Month
This year is the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) in the U.S., first celebrated in 1945. Recognizing the workforce contributions of people with disabilities, including mental health conditions, Congress designated NDEAM in 1988. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.”
Disability Employment Awareness Month is celebrated across provinces in Canada. First proclaimed by the Province of Manitoba in 2010, proclamations recognizing this impactful observance have echoed to Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nunavut.
Support for Employees with Disabilities
In the U.S.:
- The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal law prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, businesses open to the public, state and local government, transportation providers, and more.
- The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces disability laws. The EEOC also offers resources for employees describing their rights at work.
- The Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program supports people with disabilities in developing their careers.
In Canada:
- The Accessible Canada Act (ACA) creates barrier-free opportunities for all Canadians, especially people with disabilities, in key areas, including employment. Under the ACA, regulated organizations are required to publish accessibility plans, create feedback processes, and report on progress.
- Some provinces have accessibility laws, like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, which creates standards for accessibility.
Express’ DEI(B) Commitment
At Express, people are valued as our greatest asset. We honor the unique backgrounds, characteristics, and perspectives of our employees, Franchisees, internal teams, clients, associates, and those in the communities where we live and work. Learn more about DEI(B) initiatives at Express on ExpressPros.com.
