[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 167 (Tuesday, October 9, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1385]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS 
                                 MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID G. REICHERT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 9, 2018

  Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize National 
Disability Employment Awareness Month.
  This celebration of service began in 1945, when the military men and 
women returned from World War II with life-altering injuries and 
disabilities they received during their service in the war. When they 
returned, they were held back from reentering the workforce because of 
these limiting disabilities. This sparked public interest and soon 
after the end of the war, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared the 
first week of October as National Employ the Physically Handicapped 
Week.
  As awareness grew across the country of the diversity of disabilities 
individuals have, the week was renamed in 1962 to National Employ the 
Handicapped Week.
  In 1988, Congress passed the Handicapped Programs Technical 
Amendments Act of 1988, establishing October as National Disability 
Employment Awareness Month. Throughout this month, we celebrate and 
continue to increase awareness of the many contributions of workers 
with disabilities and emphasize the value of a workforce inclusive of 
their talents, skills, and unique perspectives.
  Employees with disabilities of all types bring the valuable qualities 
of reliability, dedication, loyalty, a positive attitude, and strong 
work ethic to their places of employment. This motivates their fellow 
colleagues and has a profound impact on their workplace. That is why in 
Congress, we continue to work towards creating inclusive workplace 
cultures around the country and establishing training opportunities for 
job seekers and employees with disabilities.
  This month, I join all workers with disabilities, their families, and 
the constituents of Washington's Eighth District in recognizing this 
special occasion and celebrating the contributions they have made to 
our communities, state, and nation.

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