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County recognizes value of workers with disabilities
Summary
October proclaimed Disability Awareness Month
Story
The Metropolitan King County Council and the King County Executive today jointly declared October as Disability Employment Awareness Month in King County.
The proclamation recognizes local and national efforts to provide accommodations that allow those with physical, developmental and other disabilities to utilize their skills and talents and contribute to their workplaces and communities.
King County Council Chair Larry Phillips was joined by Deputy County Executive Fred Jarrett in recognizing the county’s Employee Assistance Program that provides equipment, services and accommodations that allow employees with temporary or permanent disabilities to perform their work and serve the public.
“We have a strong commitment to providing equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and the qualifications for the job,” said Larry Phillips. “This commitment to a diverse workforce makes us stronger as a government and better able to serve the public.”
“Our practices at King County reflect our commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Executive Dow Constantine. “We all benefit when every one of us is valued and welcomed to fully contribute our energy and talent.”
Phillips and Jarrett also encouraged employers, schools and other community organizations to recognize the occasion and promote the message that “A Strong Workforce is an Inclusive Workforce” throughout the year.
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the month of October has been designated by the United States Congress as National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, people with disabilities have diverse perspectives, talents, skills and abundant energy to contribute to our economy and King County government’s work; and
WHEREAS, King County government recognizes the demonstrated benefits of a diverse workforce and experiences every day the valuable contributions of its employees with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, we are strengthened as a society by striving to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to employment, education, transportation, housing, recreation, cultural activities, and community life; and
WHEREAS, King County government is committed to the removal of attitudinal and structural barriers to employment, so that all individuals may be recognized for their abilities and given opportunities to contribute; and
WHEREAS, we must continue to work for a community where all individuals are respected for who they are, celebrated for their abilities, and encouraged to realize their full potential and achieve their dreams;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, King County Executive Dow Constantine, and the Metropolitan King County Council, proclaim October 2014, as
DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH
in King County and urge everyone to join us in reaffirming our determination to achieve a society that affords independence, justice, and dignity for all.
DATED this sixth day of October 2014.
Councilmembers and Deputy County Executive Fred Jarrett are joined by Council staff Brooke Caddock
(front row, center) as they recognize October as “Disability Awareness Month” in King County.
