State of Texas Office of Governor Greg Abbott has issued two important proclamations regarding the employment of people with disabilities. Full transcripts of the proclamations are below.
For more information on The Governors Committee on People with Disabilities, visit the Office of the Governor Greg Abbott's website.
Disability Employment Awareness Month proclamation:
Texas is an undisputed economic leader with a remarkable job creation record, providing opportunities for all to better themselves and their families. Our state is also home to a world class workforce -one in which individuals with disabilities play a critical role.
The Lone Star State continues to benefit from an integrated workforce where people with and without disabilities work side by side. Businesses that hire, retain and include people with disabilities continue to discover that a strong workforce is an inclusive workforce. The perspective and creativity of people with disabilities benefit employers who acknowledge each person's unique strengths and talents. Employment also helps Texans with disabilities pursue their full potential for independence in their communities.
Each October, an awareness campaign is conducted to support equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities also presents the annual Lex Frieden Employment Awards , named for the disability rights champion instrumental in the adoption of the Americans with Disabilities Act. These awards recognize businesses , individuals and organizations dedicated to maintaining an inclusive workforce . This year's recipients are Brian East of Disability Rights Texas, Austin ; Thomas R. Schenck, Fort Worth; Bank of America ; Home Depot, Keller; Sign Shares Inc. International, Houston; Texas State Independent Living Council, Austin ; and the Greater Houston Business Leadership Network.
At this time, I encourage all Texans to recognize the strengths that people with disabilities can bring to our workforce , our community and our state as a whole.
Therefore , I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim October 2015 to be Disabilities Employment Awareness Month in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.
Disability History Awareness Month proclamation:
Throughout our state's history, Texans with disabilities have played an important role in making Texas the greatest state in our nation to live, work and raise a family. Demonstrating the remarkable qualities of the Texas spirit- courage, independence and ingenuity -they have filled some of our highest offices, fought in historic battles and contributed to the art and culture of our state.
Each year, October is designated as Persons with Disabilities History and Awareness Month in Texas. Not only do we celebrate the many Texans with disabilities who have influenced our history, we also recognize the endeavor toward full civil rights and equal opportunity for all.
This year, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, I encourage all Texans to learn more about the achievements of people with disabilities who have contributed so much to our society and about the disability rights movement as it takes its rightful place as part of the story of Texas. I am proud of the activities across our state commemorating this month and the motivating principle behind our celebrations: the recognition that Texas' finest resource is the people who call it home.
Therefore, I, Greg Abbott , Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim October 2015 to be Persons with Disabilities History and Awareness Month in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.