[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16198]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 20, 2015

  Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to celebrate the 
valiant contributions of individuals with disabilities in the 
workplace. Twenty-five years ago America took an enormous stride as a 
nation when enacting the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This 
legislation was monumental in promoting equal opportunity for those 
with a disability seeking employment, yet nearly a quarter century 
later discrimination still exists.
  Over forty-eight million Americans have a disability, but are 
unemployed at a rate that is twice that of people without disabilities. 
Despite the courageous effort of those with disabilities to change 
beliefs of employers they still face grave challenges in the workplace. 
We must come together as a nation to support those here in the United 
States suffering from employment discrimination because of a 
disability. America can become a stronger nation when we utilize the 
talents of and celebrate the gifts of all of our people. During 
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recognize Americans 
with disabilities that strengthen our workforce, communities, and 
country.
  Many great organizations such as People Inc. in Western New York 
strive to promote equality for those with disabilities. People Inc. was 
founded in 1986 with a goal to give individuals with disabling 
conditions or other special needs support they need to participate and 
succeed in an accepting society. People Inc. is working toward a future 
where all persons whose needs limit their integration into the 
community can reach their highest level of human potential as 
responsible members of society.
  I will continue to fight for the equal employment opportunity for 
those with disabilities. It is time that we put people with 
disabilities on a level playing field with every other American. I have 
supported and cosponsored the Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities 
Act, a bill that overturns 75-year-old provisions that allow 
individuals with disabilities to be employed at subminimum wage rates.
  Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize 
National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I ask that my 
colleagues join me in support for those with disabilities in the 
workplace and encourage them to spread awareness across the United 
States this October.

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