Every October, the nation observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)—a time to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities, raise awareness about disability employment issues, and highlight the importance of inclusive workplaces.

For 2025, NDEAM marks its 80th anniversary, and the theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.” This theme reflects the vital role individuals with disabilities play in strengthening our workforce and economy through their diverse skills, perspectives, and innovation.

Why NDEAM Matters

Diverse Perspectives and Strengths
Employees with disabilities bring unique problem-solving abilities, creativity, and resilience. Inclusive teams are stronger, more adaptable, and better equipped to address complex challenges.

Retention and Engagement
Accessible workplaces and effective accommodations foster loyalty, improve morale, and reduce turnover. When employees feel supported, everyone benefits.

Legal and Ethical Responsibility
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related laws establish the right to equal employment opportunities. Beyond compliance, prioritizing inclusion reflects fairness and respect.

Positive Organizational Culture
Workplaces that embrace disability inclusion build reputations as forward-thinking and socially responsible. This not only benefits employees but also strengthens connections with clients, partners, and communities.

Ways to Recognize NDEAM

• Awareness and Education: Host discussions, training, or share resources to deepen understanding of disability inclusion.
• Policy Review: Ensure job descriptions, hiring practices, and workplace policies reflect accessibility and inclusivity.
• Visibility: Display the official NDEAM poster and share messages across social media using #NDEAM.
• Mentorship and Opportunity: Support programs like Disability Mentoring Day to connect youth and job seekers with disabilities to career exposure.
• Year-Round Commitment: Let NDEAM be a starting point for embedding inclusion into everyday workplace practices, not just a one-month initiative.

Honoring 80 Years of Progress

This year’s NDEAM not only recognizes the progress made since its first observance in 1945 but also serves as a reminder that the work of advancing inclusion continues. By celebrating value and talent, we reaffirm that people with disabilities are an essential part of our communities and workplaces—today and every day.