Americans with Disabilities Act 25th Anniversary Timeline - Disability & Employment

Declaration of “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week”

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8/11/1945

The return of service members with disabilities from World War II sparks public interest in the contributions of people with disabilities in the workplace. On August 11, 1945, President Harry S. Truman approves a Congressional resolution declaring the first week in October “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word "physically" is removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities.

Vintage poster commissioned by the President's Committee on National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week. — National Archives