ALCOAST 358/21 - SEP 2021 PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES CONTINUE TO ACHIEVE AND INSPIRE

R 301924Z SEP 21
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 358/21
SSIC 5350
SUBJ: PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES CONTINUE TO ACHIEVE AND INSPIRE
1. The federal government and employers across the U.S. observe
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) every
October. The observance brings attention to the numerous and varied
achievements of people with disabilities to America's workplaces
and economy. The 2021 theme, America's Recovery: Powered by
Inclusion, spotlights the importance of full access by persons
with disabilities to employment and community involvement during
the COVID-19 global pandemic.
2. According to the Center for Disease Control, 61 million adults
(one in four) in the United States live with a disability. The U.S.
Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
offers resources for supervisors and managers on policy development,
technical assistance, and strategies for recruiting and retaining
qualified individuals with disabilities.
3. Notable people with disabilities continue to inspire us all with
their courage, perseverance, and determination. In 2012, U.S. Army
Colonel Gregory D. Gadson became the first person with both legs
amputated to command a 47,000-strong garrison of soldiers at Fort
Belvoir. A former Director of the Army Wounded Warrior program, he
championed a Continuation on Active Duty program for soldiers with
amputations. Dr. Mary Temple Grandin, an American scientist and
expert on animal behavior, was one of the first individuals on
the autism spectrum to document the insights she gained from her
personal experience. Franklin D. Roosevelt contracted a paralytic
illness prior to winning election as Governor of New York.
His permanent paralysis did not alter his trajectory to becoming
the 32nd President of the United States. Singer, songwriter,
musician, and record producer Stevie Wonder, as well as singer
and composer José Feliciano, overcame many obstacles of their
blindness to become innovators making lasting contributions to
their industry. Academy Award winning actress, author, and activist
Marlee Matlin is the only deaf performer to have won her
profession’s highest honor, an Academy Award; she remains the
youngest Best Actress winner.
4. The Coast Guard reaffirms its commitment to recruit, retain,
and promote individuals with disabilities. An inclusive workforce
and accessible workplace promotes equal opportunities for meaningful
careers and professional independence. We are stronger together
when we have different perspectives and abilities to better lead
innovation, enhance productivity, and accomplish our mission.
5. All Coast Guard commands and units are encouraged to recognize
NDEAM through events and activities. Recommendations, posters, and
other resources are available at:
(Copy and Paste URL Below into Browser)

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeam

6. Please continue to follow guidelines for in-person gatherings
and use remote collaboration platforms, websites, newsletters, and
social media to celebrate this observance.
7. POC: COMDT (CG-00H), Mr. Juan Torres, 202-372-4594,
Juan.L.Torres@uscg.mil.
8. Dr. Terri A. Dickerson, Civil Rights Director (CG-00H), sends.
9. Internet release is authorized.