HARTFORD, CT - Governor Ned Lamont October 1, 2024 announced that he has signed a proclamation declaring October 2024 as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Connecticut in recognition of all Connecticut residents with disabilities in the workplace and in honor of their many accomplishments.

“Disability Employment Awareness Month is a significant time to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities,” Governor Lamont said.  “It is a period that highlights the importance of inclusive employment policies and practices that create benefits for both employers and employees. Connecticut’s dedication to fostering an inclusive workforce where people of all abilities are appreciated and integrated into the business community enriches the diverse tapestry of the workplace and of the state.”

“Given the number of open jobs in our state, we know many industries and businesses are looking for employees,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “I’ve had the great privilege of visiting businesses that employ people of different abilities, like BeanZ & Co. in Avon, Good Cause Gifts in Berlin, Creations in Madison, and The Blue Dragonfly Gift Shop in Windsor, to name a few. Disability Employment Awareness Month is a wonderful way to highlight and celebrate these opportunities.”

The Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services assists individuals with disabilities to prepare for, maintain, and advance in employment. Services include vocational counseling, job search assistance, on the job training and more.

“Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the importance of inclusive employment and celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce,” Amy Porter, commissioner of the Department of Aging and Disability Services, said. “The theme ‘Access to Good Jobs for All’ is a call to action for employers, communities, and governments to collaborate and create a workforce that values diversity and inclusion.”

“The contributions of individuals with disabilities in our workplaces help make our communities stronger and more inclusive,” Jordan Scheff, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services, said. “The Department of Developmental Services celebrates the unique talents and life experiences individuals with disabilities bring to the workplace and we’re committed to advocating for meaningful and fulfilling employment opportunities for all individuals we support.”

“Now is a great time to get into the job market,” Danté Bartolomeo, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Labor, said. “Employers throughout Connecticut, across industries, and at every career level have more than 80,000 jobs available. No matter your skillset, the Connecticut Department of Labor and the American Job Centers in our state can help you launch a job search. Each employee brings unique abilities and diversity to their job, it’s what makes our economy strong and competitive.”

“At DMHAS, we recognize that individuals with disabilities bring unique perspectives and talents to the workforce, contributing to the richness and diversity of our communities,” Nancy Navarretta, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, said. “Disability Employment Awareness Month is an important reminder that inclusive employment practices not only empower individuals but also strengthen our workplaces and society as a whole. We remain committed to advocating for opportunities that allow every individual to be meaningfully employed and contribute to our workforce.”

In Connecticut, assistance for jobseekers with disabilities is available virtually and in-person through a variety of resources. For more information:

- Visit the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services website for more information on employment and other services available to people with disabilities at ct.gov/ads.

- Connect with the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services to get resources and job information for individuals with intellectual disabilities at ct.gov/dds.

- Visit one of the Connecticut Department of Labor’s American Job Centers (appointments are recommended). More information is available at portal.ct.gov/ajc.

- Explore CTHires, which serves as a one-stop resource to search for jobs, create a resume, and find training. More information is available at portal.ct.gov/cthires.

- Attend one of several job fairs that are scheduled across the state. For a full schedule, visit portal.ct.gov/dol/divisions/american-job-centers/recruitment-events.

The full text of Governor Lamont’s proclamation is as follows:

State of Connecticut

By His Excellency, Ned Lamont, Governor: an

Official Statement

WHEREAS, October 2024 marks the 79^th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, National Disability Employment Awareness Month encourages the welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, as a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive, equitable community and strong economy; and

WHEREAS, I strongly urge all Connecticut businesses to recognize the value and talent people with disabilities add to our workplaces and communities and affirm Connecticut’s commitment to an inclusive community that increases access and opportunities to all, including individuals with disabilities; now

THEREFORE, I, Ned Lamont, Governor of the State of Connecticut – in celebration of all of Connecticut’s residents with disabilities in the workplace and in honor of their many accomplishments - do hereby officially proclaim October 2024 as

DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH

in the State of Connecticut.