In honor and recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Atlanta City Council has presented Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) with a proclamation. It reads:

Whereas, Workplaces welcoming the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy. In this spirit, the Atlanta City Council recognizes October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month as we raise awareness about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of people with disabilities; and

Whereas, Activities during this month will reinforce the value and talent that people with disabilities add to our workplaces and communities and affirm the city of Atlanta's commitment to an inclusive community; and

Whereas, the history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week of each October "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week". In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and

Whereas, Americans of all abilities must have access to good safe jobs, and smart employers know that including different perspectives in problem-solving situations leads to better solutions. Hiring employees with diverse abilities strengthens their business, increases competition, and drives innovation; and

Whereas, the City of Atlanta is proud to be a part of this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month. We want to spread the important message that we value all perspectives, including those of individuals with disabilities.

Now, therefore, be it resolved that we, the members of the Atlanta City Council, on behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, do hereby proclaim October 2018 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in the City of Atlanta. In so doing, we call upon employers, schools, and other community organizations in our city to observe this month with appropriate programs and to advance its important message that people with disabilities are equal to the task throughout the year.

Signed:

Felicia A. Moore, President, Atlanta City Council

Carla Smith, Council District 1

Amir R. Farokhi, Council District 2

Ivory Lee Young, Jr., Council District 3

Cleta Winslow, Council District 4

Natalyn Mosby Archibong, Council District 5

Jennifer N. Ide, Council District 6

Howard Shook, Council District 7

J.P. Matzigkeit, Council District 8

Dustin Hillis, Council District 9

Andrea L. Boone, Council District 10

Marci Collier Overstreet, Council District 11

Joyce M. Sheperd, Council District 12

Michael Julian Bond, Post 1 At-Large

Matt Westmoreland, Post 2 At-Large

Andre Dickens, Post 3 At-Large