Employees with disabilities make significant contributions
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), originally enacted by Congress in 1945, is recognized in October.
NDEAM is intended to promote respect for people with physical and developmental disabilities, increasing awareness of the obstacles they face at the workplace. NDEAM strengthens CDCR/CCHCS commitment to provide opportunity and growth for individuals with disabilities. They are an asset to our workforce and community.
The observance gives us an opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions employees with disabilities make in our Department. This year also marks the 76th Anniversary of NDEAM and the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law in 1990.
The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of one’s disability. It is also designed to help individuals with disabilities access the same employment opportunities and benefits available to those without disabilities. Disabilities come in various forms including, but not limited to, vision, movement, thinking, memory, learning, communication, hearing, and emotional health.
Some examples of disabilities:
- Spina Bifida
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Autism
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Severe Depression
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- loss of hearing
- loss of limb.
Historically, CDCR and CCHCS have joined with other agencies to participate in community awareness events. Our world has changed and many in-person events are currently on hold or suspended.
CDCR and CCHCS encourage the hiring and promotion of our peers with disabilities. To this end, the Disability Advisory Committee (DAC) helps employees by serving as a resource for disability rights and information. DAC strongly encourages you to expand your knowledge and awareness of disabilities both in and out of the workplace.
DAC is always welcoming new members, so we encourage you speak with your manager about the possibility of joining. Since inclusion and equality are crucial, it is important we recognize the contributions our disabled workforce bring to the table. It is an honor to work with an organization that recognizes and accepts all walks of life.
DAC challenges you to expand your perception of disability, and encourages you to better understand your peers with disabilities.
For more information or questions about the CDCD/CCHCS DAC please email the Disability Advisory Committee at DAC@cdcr.ca.gov