[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 146 (Tuesday, October 6, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1436]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 6, 2015

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to 
recognize October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. As 
we celebrate the 70th year of recognizing individuals with disabilities 
within our national workforce, it is paramount that we, as a country, 
do everything we can to ensure individuals with a disability have 
opportunities to enter the workforce without barriers.
  Individuals with disabilities are a vital part of our national 
workforce and have contributed greatly to the U.S. economy. Yet, only 
19.1% of these Americans are participants in the labor force. 
Accessibility, transportation, and perceptions of individuals with 
disabilities are some of the many obstacles that prevent these 
Americans from being given the opportunity to put in a full day's work 
and become active members of our communities. Likewise, it is critical 
that we recognize the organizations and individuals across the country 
that provide these opportunities.
  The Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind is one such organization in my 
district that deserves this special recognition. Founded in 1931, the 
Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind provides employment opportunities for 
the visually impaired. The organization enhances the lives of hundreds 
of individuals with disabilities. In doing so, they bring tremendous 
value to our community.
  As we recognize October as National Disability Employment Awareness 
Month, I call on employers, schools, and other organizations to work 
throughout the year--not only in October--to ensure that individuals 
with disabilities have a chance to contribute in meaningful and long-
lasting ways through gainful employment. Mr. Speaker, individuals with 
disabilities have a lot of value to contribute to our society, and I am 
pleased to recognize their contributions during this very special 
month.

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