Celebrating 80 Years of Disability Inclusion in the Workplace for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

Washington, D.C., September 24, 2025 - Eighty years ago, the United States designated a single week to recognize the contributions of physically disabled Americans. By 1988, the observance had evolved into National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), an annual campaign celebrating the contributions of workers with all types of disabilities and highlighting the value of an inclusive workforce.

Considering recent shifts in the work landscape for marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, this anniversary is especially meaningful. From pandemic-driven changes in remote work to the current return to in-office settings, and the long-term effects on individuals, as well as recent government changes that have shifted business perspectives on workplace culture and hiring practices, disabled workers continue to break down barriers and challenge stigmas surrounding disability at work. As a community, we are expanding access and opportunities for ourselves and others, a feat worth celebrating, aligning with the original purpose of the Department of Labor's (DOL) NDEAM.

As a disability advocacy organization that is also disability-led, we're dedicated to the ongoing celebration of disability inclusion and representation across all sectors of work. However, barriers, negative attitudes, and general misinformation still continues.

These challenges make it harder to find and maintain employment. In 2023, only 22.5% of Americans with disabilities were employed, compared to 65.8% of those without disabilities (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

For this milestone year, the NDEAM theme is "Celebrating Value and Talent." Throughout October, Disability BelongsTM will share new resources and programming aimed at employers seeking to boost accessible practices, as well as job seekers and employees with disabilities at all levels, on how to enhance the skills, creativity, and leadership they bring to every field. Follow us on social media @DisabilityBelongs for updates.

"Disability BelongsTM remains committed to addressing critical gaps in disability employment by partnering with businesses, workforce agencies, and nonprofits to drive meaningful progress in workplace inclusion," said Kevin McCloskey, Senior Director of Leadership and Workforce Development at Disability BelongsTM.

Partner with Disability BelongsTM on Your NDEAM Programming

We believe that every workplace benefits from disability-led insight. Our team brings lived experience and accessibility expertise to help organizations create NDEAM programming that drives real change.

We provide practical, engaging support to highlight the impact of disability in the workplace, improve recruitment and retention, and build skills in inclusive language and communication. We want to work with you to make your NDEAM celebration meaningful, actionable, and a step toward a truly inclusive workplace. Learn more at www.DisabilityBelongs.org/Partner.

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About Disability BelongsTM
Disability BelongsTM is a diverse, disability-led nonprofit dedicated to changing how society views and values people with disabilities. Through advocacy, training, and resources, Disability BelongsTM empowers individuals to thrive in all aspects of life.

This release was published on openPR.