WHEREAS, this October marks the 76th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, National Disability Employment Awareness Month is intended to celebrate the countless and wide-ranging contributions of America’s workers with disabilities and educate our businesses and communities about disability employment issues; and

WHEREAS, the observance was first enacted into law by Congress in 1945 as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” Then, in 1962 the word “physically” was removed to be considerate of the needs and contributions of individuals with all forms of disabilities. Finally, in 1988 the week was expanded into a month-long observance and renamed as National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City aims to be an inclusive and equitable workplace, welcoming the talents of all people, including individuals with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City is grateful for the guidance and insight gained through our Accessibility Advisory Committee, and with their support will continue to take steps to recruit, hire, retain, and advance individuals with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, we encourage other local and state employers and community organizations to observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month with appropriate programs and activities and help advance its important message that people with disabilities add value and talent to our workplaces and communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim October 2021:

Disability Employment Awareness Month in Salt Lake City

To view an electronic copy of the signed proclamation, click here.