By Makayla Rosales, Coordinator, Opportunity & Impact
Average reading time: 2.5 minutes
This October marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to honor the vital contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce and to reaffirm the importance of creating inclusive opportunities for all.
First established in 1945 as a weeklong observance recognizing workers with physical disabilities, NDEAM has since grown into a nationwide month of awareness and action. In 1988, Congress formally designated October as NDEAM, expanding its scope to include individuals with mental health conditions and other invisible disabilities. Today, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy leads the observance, selecting an annual theme that inspires organizations across the country to advance workplace inclusion.
Engage in the workplace
NDEAM is an excellent time to review your company’s policies and ensure they reflect a genuine commitment to accessibility. Examining areas such as recruitment, accommodation, professional development, and workplace culture can reveal opportunities to better support employees with disabilities.
To support these efforts, the Dallas Regional Chamber’s Disability Inclusion Toolkit, presented by Ernst & Young LLP, demonstrates why disability inclusion is a strategic business imperative that drives innovation, strengthens workplaces, and creates lasting value. It was developed with input from local experts and the experiences of individuals with disabilities, including those with invisible or neurodivergent conditions. It also encourages employers to create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing accommodations and highlights the business benefits of disability inclusion.
Reinforcing a commitment to a disability-inclusive workplace starts with employee education. NDEAM provides the perfect opportunity to highlight this commitment through engaging activities such as disability awareness training, workshops, or informal sessions like brown-bag lunch discussions. Employers can take advantage of ready-to-use resources, including disability etiquette guides, videos, and discussion materials to spark meaningful conversations. Partnering with local disability organizations is another impactful way to bring expert-led training directly into the workplace, fostering greater understanding across teams.
Attend an event
If you are interested in bringing your team, friends, or family to events acknowledging NDEAM, here are some local events:
Disability Days of Service 2025: Oct. 10-11
Various Locations in North Texas
The inaugural 2025 NTX Disability Days of Service will feature more than eight nonprofits and 80+ volunteer opportunities spanning two days across North Texas.
Job Fair for People with Disabilities: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21
Gilley’s Dallas, 1135 Botham Jean Blvd. Dallas, TX, 75215
Meet inclusive employers and network directly with companies committed to disability inclusion. Learn about open roles, application tips, and explore opportunities in a variety of industries.
Book a Custom Engagement: Oct. 1-31, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Virtual
Partner with Disability:IN to find the right course for your organization’s priorities, with more than eight courses to choose from.
Employee Engagement Assessment
Virtual
Gauge how your disability practices impact employees and ensure you are meeting their needs with the National Organization on Disability’s Employee Engagement Assessment. Enrollment is limited.
Other October holidays to celebrate
October is filled with meaningful observances that offer opportunities for reflection, awareness, and celebration. World Mental Health Day on Friday, Oct. 10, reminds us of the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and fostering supportive environments.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, Oct. 13, honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native communities, encouraging us to learn and engage with their enduring legacies.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on Monday, Oct. 20, is a time to celebrate new beginnings, hope, and the triumph of light over darkness.
Throughout October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month underscores the critical need for early detection, research, and support for those affected.