Title
Proclamation Declaring October as Disability Awareness Month 2021.
Body
Proclamation
Whereas, October 2021 marks the 76th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), established in 1945, and the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), established in 1990; and
Whereas, the purpose of NDEAM is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities on the workplace and the economy; and
Whereas, while historically this month was intended to highlight people with physical disabilities, since 1962, the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities have been recognized, including people with hidden or invisible disabilities; and
Whereas, the COVID-19 has pandemic disproportionally impacted people with disabilities and their health care, social service programs, education, employment, and engagement with the community; and
Whereas, 2021’s theme is “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion,” reflecting on the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have full access to employment and community involvements during the national recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; and
Whereas, Disability Awareness Month affirms the progress the City of Alameda has made in improving employment opportunities, government services, public accommodations and transportation, while recognizing there is still work to be done to remove all barriers, physical and social, that unreasonably prevent the full participation of people with disabilities; and
Whereas, in 1974, the Alameda City Council established a committee to provide a public forum to address local disability issues. Today, the Commission on Persons with Disabilities advises the City Council, City Departments, and other Boards and Commissions on issues affecting people with disabilities, and actions the City can take to achieve an environment where people with disabilities have equal access to programs, housing, facilities and services; and to foster attitudes and promote behaviors that respect and value people with disabilities throughout our community; and
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that I, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, do hereby proclaim October 2021 as Disability Awareness and Acceptance Month in the City of Alameda and encourage residents and businesses to welcome the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, to ensure access and opportunity for all.
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor