October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
The Village of Forest Park issued a NDEAM Proclamation during the Village Council meeting this week.
WHEREAS, October 2026 marks the 81st anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to raise awareness of disability employment and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, The history of NDEAM traces back to 1945, when it began as a weeklong recognition of people with physical disabilities.
WHEREAS, In 1988, the United States Congress established October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to raise awareness of the employment needs and contributions of people with disabilities.
WHEREAS, Workplaces welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions and other nonobvious disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build a strong economy; and
WHEREAS, Activities during this month will reinforce the value and talent people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions and other nonobvious disabilities, add to our workplaces and communities and affirm the City of Forest Park’s commitment to ensuring that all people, including disabled workers, have the opportunity to find meaningful work.
Therefore, be it RESOLVED, That Mayor Rory Hoskin’s and the City of Forest Park recognizes and commemorates the 81st anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy and Mayor Rory Hoskin’s and the City of Forest Park call upon employers, schools, and other community organizations in the City of Forest Park to participate in the observance with appropriate programs and activities in October to help ensure that disabled workers have the opportunity to find meaningful work every month of every year; and be it further
RESOLVED, That Mayor Rory Hoskin’s and the City of Forest Park pledges to continue to take steps throughout the year to recruit, hire, retain, and advance individuals with disabilities and work to pursue the goals of opportunity, full participation, economic self-sufficiency, and independent living for people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions and other nonobvious disabilities.