MAFB observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jacob M. Thompson
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. –National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a nationally recognized awareness campaign. Each October, for more than 70 years, the Department of Labor sets out to educate individuals about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities.

“It’s important for our Malmstrom community to recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month because we want to spread the important message that we value all perspectives, including those of individuals with disabilities,” said Airman 1st Class Travis Phillips, 341st Medical Group bioenvironmental technician.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month’s roots began in 1945, when Congress established a law declaring the first week of October “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” Congress removed the word “physically” in 1962 to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress lengthened the week to a month and renamed it National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

"Every day, individuals with disabilities add significant value and talent to our workforce and economy," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. "Individuals with disabilities offer employers diverse perspectives on how to tackle challenges and achieve success. Individuals with disabilities have the right talent, right now."

For more information about National Disability Employment Awareness Month, visit www.dol.gov/NDEAM.