Nebraska agencies join national campaign for disability employment awareness

The Nebraska Department of Education and Nebraska VR are joining the annual National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) campaign this October. The event aims to raise awareness about employment issues facing people with disabilities and to recognize their contributions in the workplace. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.”

National Disability Employment Awareness Month began in 1945 as a week dedicated to recognizing the work of people with physical disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded it to include all people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer stated, “Celebrating America means celebrating the value and talent that all Americans – including people with disabilities – add to our nation’s workplaces and communities. As we approach the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Department of Labor remains committed to ensuring all people have the opportunity to find meaningful work.”

Nebraska VR will mark the occasion by sharing resources on social media throughout October and highlighting partners who support inclusive employment practices. The Nebraska State Rehabilitation Council will also host its Disability Employment and Inclusion Award ceremony on October 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM Central Time. Registration information can be found at https://conta.cc/41KK9Lv.

“Nebraska VR is proud to be a part of the 80th anniversary celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month,” said Nebraska VR Director Lindy Foley. “We want to spread the important message to build and celebrate the value and talent in a workforce inclusive of skills and abilities of all individuals including individuals with disabilities.”

Employers interested in learning more about participating in NDEAM or promoting disability inclusion can find additional information at www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeamgov/NDEAM.