In 1945, Congress designated a week in October to recognize the skills and contributions of people with disabilities to the workforce.  In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month.  National Disability Employment Awareness Month has become an important annual tradition.

Throughout the years, this observance has grown into a celebration of our continued efforts to expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities.  Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao recently announced the official theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2005 — “Workers with Disabilities: Ready for Tomorrow's Jobs Today.”  This theme will be used by the private sector; federal, state and local governments; and advocacy organizations around the country to plan events and programs that showcase the abilities and skills of job candidates who have disabilities.