Pasadena Observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month

The city is observing National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place in October.

The campaign seeks to educate the public about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

This year’s theme is “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion.”

The Pasadena City Council proclaimed October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and Mayor Victor Gordo will join Pasadena Civitan, a local service group whose current mission includes increasing employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to present an award to local employers of people with disabilities.

The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month dates back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.”

In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

“The City of Pasadena is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month,” said Brenda Harvey-Williams, Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department director. “We want to share the important message that we value all perspectives in the workplace, including those of individuals with disabilities.”