October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Gov. Eloy S. Inos declared October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month last Friday to reinforce the value and talent that people with disabilities add to workplaces and communities.

NDEAM’s purpose of is to educate the community about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of CNMI workers with disabilities.

NDEAM’s roots go back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month, or NDEAM.

“Upon its establishment in 2001, the Office of Disability Employment Policy assumed responsibility for NDEAM and has worked to expand its reach and scope ever since,” said Rep. Antonio Agulto (Ind-Saipan).

Pearlyann Cango, who works for Mariana Resort and Spa, read the proclamation explaining about NDEAM.

“Places of employment that promote equal opportunities for persons, regardless of disabilities or for other reasons, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy,” Cango said.

Inos echoed Cango and other disability advocates on the promotion of persons with disability in the workplace.

“I call upon employers, schools, and other community organizations in the CNMI to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to advocate its important message that people with disabilities are equal to the task,” Inos said.

Pamela Sablan of the Council on Developmental Disabilities, who also chairs the State Rehabilitation Council of the CNMI, urged everyone to remember NDEAM’s three most powerful words: expect, employ, and empower.

“Youth with disabilities must grow up expecting to work and succeed and this message can’t start early enough. Employers must foster flexible work environments and open to employing the talents of all qualified individuals with disabilities. When high expectations meet inclusive workplaces, we reach the final step,” Sablan said.

She noted that Ayuda Network will be joining with CDD to observe NDEAM.

“Together with Ayuda Network, we join the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation in promoting meaningful employment for people with disabilities on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota,” Sablan said

“Ayuda Network will support its partners in their shared goal of increasing independence and self-sufficiency of people with disabilities,” Ayuda Network executive director Diana Camacho said.

NDEAM activities include outreach on all three islands from Oct 14 to Oct 24. To participate in NDEAM activities, contact committee chair Thomas Thornburgh at 235- 7273 or OVR’s Josephine Tudela at 322-6537 or 322-6538.