FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 8, 1999 CONTACT: Edmund Byrnes 202-606-2572 or edbyrnes@opm.gov TOP CLINTON OFFICIAL OUTLINES STEPS TO EMPLOY PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Washington, D.C. -- Those with disabilities face challenges that most people rarely encounter. Today, the Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Janice R. Lachance, discussed the need for giving everyone an equal shot at success. In her keynote address at the 18th Annual National Symposium on Perspectives on Employment of Persons with Disabilities, Director Lachance said that it was imperative to hire the best and brightest, regardless of their background or perceived handicap. "Our history is a proud history of inclusion...one that is the envy of the world. Because of our ability to include and accept, we have become a country of great achievement," said Lachance. "But we must do more. We must continue to fight for those who are still waging a battle against discrimination." In addition to Director Lachance's call for giving equal opportunities to everyone, she also talked about what OPM is doing to help people with disabilities. Two new important tools that OPM has recently published, and were announced by President Clinton, include the first ever plan Accessing Opportunity: The Plan for Employment of People With Disabilities in the Federal Government and its companion guide People with Disabilities in the Federal Government: An Employment Guide. "By giving agencies the tools to help them create a balanced workforce, OPM is helping to level the playing field for all," said Lachance. For more information on OPM initiatives and publications, you may visit its web site at www.opm.gov.

Web page created 8 December 1999