October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). It is a time to raise awareness of the issues that affect Americans with disabilities and celebrate their many contributions to our workforce and our nation.
In the U.S., approximately 20% of adults have a disability. But, as this year’s theme for NDEAM points out, “My Disability Is One Part of Who I Am.”
“This year’s theme encapsulates the important message that people with disabilities are just that – people,” said Jennifer Sheehy, acting assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy. “And like all people, we are the sum of many parts, including our work experiences. Disability is an important perspective we bring to the table, but, of course, it’s not the only one.”
There are many different disabling conditions and they can vary widely in their severity. For many Americans, their conditions do not prevent them from being able to work, but workplace discrimination is still an issue. For others who are not able to work, the road to getting disability benefits can be long and disheartening.
The Houston disability attorneys at The Law Offices Of M. Stanley Whitehead help disabled Americans understand their rights and pursue disability benefits. If you have been denied for benefits through Social Security, Veterans Affairs or a long-term disability insurance provider, contact us today for assistance.