The Importance of Participating in National Disability Employment Awareness Month
By Ryan Hundt
At Michigan Works! Association, we believe that creating a diverse and inclusive workforce is vital to the success of our communities and businesses. One of the key aspects of this inclusivity is ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not just included, but empowered to thrive in the workplace.
This October, as we join the nation in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we encourage everyone to take part in raising awareness and promoting the employment of people with disabilities.
Why NDEAM Matters
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment-population ratio for individuals with disabilities is significantly lower than those without disabilities, despite the fact that many people with disabilities possess the skills, experience, and drive to be successful in the workforce. NDEAM serves as an important reminder of the contributions that individuals with disabilities make to the workforce and highlights the work that still needs to be done to close employment gaps.
Participating in NDEAM is a way for employers, job seekers, and workforce development professionals to:
Promote inclusivity: By celebrating the talents of individuals with disabilities, we challenge stereotypes and work toward a more inclusive culture within businesses and communities.
Strengthen the workforce: People with disabilities offer unique perspectives and skills that can lead to increased innovation, improved problem-solving, and greater employee engagement.
Comply with legal and ethical standards: Employers benefit from understanding and following laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), but beyond compliance, it’s an opportunity to foster equity and respect in the workplace.
Tap into an underutilized talent pool: Many employers overlook qualified candidates with disabilities. By participating in NDEAM, businesses can re-evaluate their hiring practices and broaden their talent pool.
How to Get Involved
At Michigan Works!, we are dedicated to supporting employers and individuals alike in creating a more inclusive workforce. Here are a few ways you can join us in recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month:
Host awareness events: Organize webinars, workshops, or panel discussions focused on disability awareness and employment practices that promote inclusivity.
Share success stories: Highlight stories of individuals with disabilities who have made significant contributions to your workplace. Celebrate their achievements on social media, in newsletters, or during staff meetings.
Evaluate your hiring practices: Take the time to assess whether your hiring practices are truly inclusive. Ensure job postings are accessible, offer reasonable accommodations, and prioritize inclusivity at every step.
Partner with Michigan Works!: Our organization offers a variety of resources to help employers and job seekers succeed. We provide training, assist with job placements, and help create pathways to meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities.
Moving Forward
Participating in NDEAM is about more than a month of awareness—it's a commitment to creating lasting change. By fostering an environment that celebrates diversity, we help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our state’s growing economy.
Together, we can make workplaces across Michigan more inclusive, supportive, and successful for all.