US Department of Labor announces ‘Celebrating Value and Talent’ as National Disability Employment Awareness Month’s 2025 theme

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced that its Office of Disability Employment Policy has chosen “Celebrating Value and Talent” as the theme for the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which will be observed in October. 

NDEAM annually honors the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities and showcases supportive workplace policies and practices that benefit employees and employers alike. As part of the lead up to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, this year’s observance will highlight the achievements of Americans with disabilities both past and present.

“Celebrating America means celebrating the value and talent that all Americans – including people with disabilities – add to our nation’s workplaces and communities,” said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “As we approach the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Department of Labor remains committed to ensuring all people have the opportunity to find meaningful work.”

In 1945, the nation first designated a national week to recognize the contribution of people with physical disabilities. Designated by Congress as NDEAM in 1988, the commemoration evolved to acknowledge the importance of increasing the number of people with disabilities in the workforce. In 2001, ODEP was created and was given responsibility for NDEAM and for selecting and helping promote its annual theme.

For more information about NDEAM, visit www.dol.gov/ndeam. The annual NDEAM poster is expected to be available in summer.