NDEAM 2026

(Local View from 4'2, Lake County Press, October 16, 2026)

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month or NDEAM for short. 2026 NDEAM’s theme is Celebrating Value and Talent. It is based on the 250th anniversary of the United States representing the impact of disabled workers on the workforce. 

Some history on NDEAM. In 1945 this began with a weeklong celebration of people with physical disabilities being in the workplace. Then in 1988, Congress created NDEAM to be a month-long celebration for all disabilities being represented in the workplace. And in 2001 the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) was created and put in charge of the yearly themes and execution of NDEAM.

There are many great resources for businesses, employers, employees, allies and family members on the ODEP website which is www.dol.gov/ndeam There are also many webinars and virtual speaking engagements by disabled advocates throughout this month.

The current state of disability employment and support is not lost on this author. With upcoming work requirements for Medicaid and other support systems, it is more important than ever for workplaces to be accessible physically, in policy and through thorough training and support systems. Trying to address this nationally is daunting, even state-wide it is overwhelming.

So here is what we can do locally. We can support businesses that already support workers with disabilities, like Lake County DAC. Karl’s Wheelhouse provides vocational training through the creative arts and beautiful pieces made of wood, engraving and other seasonal items for sale by young people with disabilities. Crafted by Pete is another local creator who sells online, at local farmers markets and at Northwoods Pioneer Gallery & Gifts in Castle Danger, MN. 

We have local disabled authors like myself and Gaelynn Lea. Gaelynn’s book is up for the One Book Northland program and you can vote online or at your public library for her book or two other local authors. We also have Above & Beyond With U- a local non-profit working to increase accessibility and inclusion on the Northshore and beyond. Check out the upcoming events in partnership with the Silver Bay Public Library as we celebrate NDEAM with speakers with disabilities, artists with inclusive projects and organizations to present their supports and services.

Let’s celebrate the value and talent of local disabled folks not just this month but every day. Let’s celebrate and thank employers who are already making spaces and policies for their workers with disabilities and encourage others to join them.