October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). The purpose of NDEAM is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities.

Held annually, NDEAM is led by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy, but its true spirit lies in the many observances held at the grassroots level across the nation every year. We encourage all DSS team member to participate in NDEAM.

There are many things you can do to recognize and raise awareness about disability employment such as putting up a NDEAM poster in your office or by educating yourself and your peers about disability history. 

To learn more about National Disability Employment Month visit the Department of Labor website.

In October, we also celebrate LGBT History Month. Created by Missouri High School teacher, Rodney Wilson, LGBT History Month is an opportunity to reflect on LGBTQIA+ rights, and achievements of those who have contributed to its’ awareness over time.

October was selected to coincide with National Coming Out Day (October 11), which is the anniversary of the first march on Washington for gay and lesbian rights in 1979. In recent years, support for LGBT History Month has expanded to include a Spirit Day on October 20, in which people wear purple in support of LGBT youth.

While LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workplace should be a year-round endeavor, celebrating LGBT History Month at work is a great way to foster an inclusive work environment for LGBTQIA+ team members across the state. We encourage you to read this personal story from DSS team member, Terri Brown.