NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, 2002 BY THE
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION
All of our citizens should have the opportunity to live and work with
dignity and freedom. Every October, we observe National Disability Employment
Awareness Month, to recognize the talents, skills, and dedication of disabled
Americans who are a vital part of our workforce. During this month, we reaffirm
our commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities who want to work can
receive the training they need to achieve their goal.
This year marks the 12th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities
Act of 1990 (ADA). The ADA has allowed disabled persons to participate more
fully in our society; and it has opened doors for countless Americans by
removing barriers, improving employment opportunities, expanding government
services, and regulating public accommodations, transportation, and
telecommunications. Much work remains to be done; for many individuals with
disabilities still find it difficult to pursue an education, obtain a job, or
own a home.
My Administration remains committed to helping America's more than 50
million disabled persons to obtain meaningful work and to achieve the ADA's
promise of equality of opportunity, independent living, and economic
self-sufficiency. Last year, I announced my New Freedom Initiative to promote
these goals. It is a comprehensive plan that fosters the full participation of
people with disabilities in all aspects of American life. This initiative
provides increased access to innovative assistive technologies, expands
educational options, increases access to gainful employment, and promotes full
access to community life.
My Administration continues to enforce the ADA and is working with
employers to build partnerships that support creative job accommodations and
provide all Americans with meaningful and successful careers. Breaking down
barriers requires this kind of cooperative, sustained, and consistent effort.
We must continue to work for an America where all individuals are respected for
who they are, celebrated for their abilities, and encouraged to realize their
full potential and achieve their dreams.
By joint resolution approved August 11, 1945, as amended (36 U.S.C.
121), the Congress has, each year since 1945, called upon this Nation to
recognize the contributions that workers with disabilities have made, and
requested the President to issue a proclamation calling for appropriate
ceremonies and activities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim October 2002 as National Disability Employment
Awareness Month. I call upon all government leaders, labor leaders, and
employers to collaborate to ensure the full inclusion of our Nation's persons
with disabilities in the 21st century workforce.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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