The month of October has some significant importance in the world of disabilities. In a recent press release from the White House on October 3, 2006, President Bush has proclaimed October as National Disability Awareness Month. In 2001, the White House also proclaimed National White Cane Safety Day, observed annually on October 15.

History: Public Law 176 was enacted by Congress in 1945, designating the first week in October as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week,” and the President’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities was appointed by President Truman to carry out this Act.

In 1962, the word “physically” was removed from the week’s name to recognize the employment needs of all Americans with disabilities.

Congress, in 1988, expanded the week to a month and changed its name to “National Disability Employment Awareness Month” (NDEA Month). October has become the kick-off month for year-round programs that highlight the abilities and skills of Americans with disabilities.

There is a great article at the National Organization for the Disabled that was first published in 2002 that may be of interest.

This article was posted by George in category Disability News