National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2005

Proclamation 7937 of September 30, 2005

National Disability Employment Awareness Month,
2005

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Across America, individuals with disabilities are
making important contributions in the workplace. This
month, we celebrate their accomplishments and reaffirm
our commitment to ensuring that the opportunities of
America are available and accessible to every citizen.

Fifteen years ago, President George H. W. Bush signed
into law the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
(ADA), reducing barriers for millions of Americans with
disabilities and providing a mandate for the
elimination of discrimination in the workplace and in
the community. Since the ADA was enacted, people with
disabilities have been able to participate more fully
in the workforce, and our Nation has become stronger
and more just. Yet more work remains, and we continue
our efforts to enable Americans with disabilities to
live and work with greater freedom.

In the spirit of the ADA, my Administration's New
Freedom Initiative has expanded access to assistive
technologies, education, and opportunities for people
with disabilities to integrate into the workforce. I
signed into law legislation that improves the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to ensure
that our young people with disabilities are prepared
for the many opportunities ahead. Through these and
other efforts, we are working to ensure that Americans
with disabilities can realize the promise of America.

To recognize the contributions of Americans with
disabilities and to encourage all citizens to ensure
equal opportunity in the workforce, the Congress, by
joint resolution approved as amended (36 U.S.C. 121),
has designated October of each year as ``National
Disability Employment Awareness Month.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim October
2005 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
I call upon Government officials, labor leaders,
employers, and the people of the United States to
observe this month with appropriate programs,
ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of September, in the year of our Lord two
thousand five, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

(Presidential Sig.)B