Each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) invites us to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities and renew our commitment to creating inclusive workplaces. Many celebrate NDEAM, but it is no overnight sensation. It developed out of decades of advocacy, policy reform, and a growing understanding that hiring people with disabilities is good business.

As we approach NDEAM’s 80th anniversary in 2025, let’s take a look back at how far we’ve come and how much more we can do.

It All Began in 1945

In the aftermath of World War II, returning veterans with physical disabilities were struggling to find work. Recognizing this urgent need, Congress declared the first week of October as National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week in 1945. This initial step was about awareness, opening the door to conversations about capability, dignity, and opportunity. Some of this groundbreaking work came from Dr. Henry Viscardi, founder fo the Viscardi School and advisor to presidents from FDR to Jimmy Carter.

Expanding the Vision: 1960s–1980s

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy expanded the initiative by issuing Executive Order 10994, which renamed the observance to include people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Kennedy Family has had a long commitment to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and they founded the Special Olympics and Best Buddies. President Kenney’s support became a turning point: disability employment was no longer about just physical access, but about embracing a full spectrum of human ability.

The 1970s brought significant legal progress. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, particularly Section 504, laid the foundation for disability civil rights, prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities in federally funded programs. In 1975, the passage of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guaranteed a free and appropriate public education for all children, paving the way for future workplace participation.

Then, in 1988, President Ronald Reagan gave the observance its current name, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and reinforced the importance of people-first language through Executive Order 12640.

The ADA Era and a Civil Rights Milestone

In 1990, the disability rights movement reached a historic milestone with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA transformed the landscape of employment, public access, transportation, and more, and for many, it became known as the “Emancipation Proclamation” for people with disabilities.

The advocacy that led to the ADA wasn’t quiet. Events like the Capitol Crawl, where activists left their wheelchairs and physically crawled up the Capitol steps, showed the world what inaccessibility looks like and why it must end. Advocates like Justin Whitlock Dart Jr., Lex Frieden, and Patricia Wright pushed elected officials. Certain members of Congress, including Tom Harkin, Ted Kennedy, Bob Dole, and Tony Coelho, forged the legislation and got it passed.

Modern Policies for a Modern Workforce

As the 21st century progressed, new legislation continued to push the employment landscape forward:

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (2014): This legislation emphasized competitive integrated employment as the standard — work performed alongside those without disabilities, with equal pay and opportunity.
• ABLE Act (2014): ABLE accounts allowed individuals with disabilities to save without jeopardizing benefits — a key step toward financial independence.
• Section 503 Reform: Updates to the Rehabilitation Act required federal contractors to recruit and retain people with disabilities actively, turning intention into accountability.

Recent Milestones: 2020s and Beyond

Recent years have brought even more progress. Highlights include:

• Executive Order 14095 (2023): Improving pay for direct support professionals and strengthening home- and community-based services.
• ADA Web Accessibility Rule (2023): Ensuring government websites are accessible to all.
• SSA Eligibility Reforms (2024): Making it easier for people with disabilities to work without losing benefits.
• Proposals to phase out subminimum wages under Section 14(c), aiming to ensure equitable pay for all workers.

And in 2025, we celebrate 80 years of NDEAM — a movement that began with supporting veterans and now embraces a bold, inclusive vision for all.

Why This History Matters Today

Understanding the history of NDEAM isn’t just about looking back; it’s about looking forward. Each milestone reminds us that inclusive employment doesn’t happen by accident. It takes action, advocacy, and a willingness to reimagine what’s possible.

At organizations like John’s Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising, inclusion is more than a policy, it’s a way of life. Over half of our employees have a differing ability. Their success shows that hiring people with disabilities isn’t charity. It’s smart business. It’s innovation. It’s joy in action.

So, this October, let’s remember the road that brought us here. And let’s keep walking it, together.