National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Promote inclusion and opportunity during National Disability Employment Awareness Month! October celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and promotes inclusive employment practices. Every American deserves the opportunity to work and contribute their talents.
About National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Promote inclusion and opportunity during National Disability Employment Awareness Month! October celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and promotes inclusive employment practices. Every American deserves the opportunity to work and contribute their talents.
History & origins
National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces its roots to 1945, when the United States first set aside the first week in October as National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week. In 1962, the word “physically” was removed, and in 1988 Congress expanded the observance to the full month of October under the name National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy now administers the annual campaign.
Why it matters
National Disability Employment Awareness Month highlights the skills, contributions, and economic value of workers with disabilities while pushing employers to remove barriers in hiring, retention, and advancement. It also raises awareness of reasonable accommodations and workplace accessibility, which can improve productivity, widen talent pipelines, and create more inclusive workplaces for everyone.
How to celebrate
Promote inclusive hiring practices. Learn about disability accommodations. Support businesses that employ people with disabilities. Advocate for workplace accessibility. Share success stories of employees with disabilities. Educate others about disability employment.
Facts
- 1 in 4 American adults lives with a disability
- The Americans with Disabilities Act passed in 1990
- People with disabilities have high unemployment rates despite abilities
- Workplace accommodations are often simple and low-cost
- Inclusive workplaces benefit everyone
Upcoming dates
- Thursday, October 1, 2026
- Friday, October 1, 2027
- Sunday, October 1, 2028
- Monday, October 1, 2029
- Tuesday, October 1, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Disability Employment Awareness Month in 2026?
National Disability Employment Awareness Month is observed throughout October 2026. It runs from October 1, 2026, through October 31, 2026.
What is National Disability Employment Awareness Month?
It is an annual October observance that promotes disability inclusion in the workplace and recognizes the contributions of employees with disabilities. The campaign focuses on employment opportunity, accessibility, and equal participation.
Who started National Disability Employment Awareness Month?
The observance began as a 1945 U.S. initiative called National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week. Congress later expanded it to a month in 1988, and the Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy now leads it.
How do you celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month?
You can celebrate by promoting inclusive hiring, learning about workplace accommodations, and sharing success stories of employees with disabilities. Employers and advocates often use October to review accessibility practices and encourage disability awareness training.
Is National Disability Employment Awareness Month an official holiday?
No, it is not a federal holiday. It is a national observance focused on awareness, education, and workplace inclusion.
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