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National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), observed each October, is an annual recognition of the positive impact of people with disabilities in the American workforce. This recognition began in 1945 as a weeklong national observance of the contributions of people with physical disabilities. In 1988, Congress designated the commemoration as NDEAM, which then evolved to acknowledge the importance of increasing opportunities in the labor force for people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions and other nonobvious disabilities. This month showcases supportive policies and practices that benefit both employees and employers. In 2001, the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) was created and now oversees NDEAM, including the selection and promotion of its annual theme. To broaden its impact, NDEAM also offers an opportunity to launch year-round activities that highlight the importance of including disability in all of an organization's endeavors.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy
