R 301600Z SEP 24 MARADMIN 450/24 MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MP// SUBJ/2024 NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH// REF/A/PUBLIC LAW 176/1945// NARR/REF A IS PUBLIC LAW ON NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT  AWARENESS MONTH// POC/S. C. WARNER/MAJ/CMC (MPE)/TEL: COM 703-784-2149/TEL: DSN 278/ EMAIL: [email protected]// GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  National Disability Employment Awareness Month  (NDEAM) is celebrated each year in October.  Public Law and  Presidential Proclamation establish the observation of NDEAM, which  is observed from 1 - 31 October each year. The awareness event is  followed so that Americans may reaffirm their commitment to  ensuring equal opportunity for all citizens and pay tribute to the  accomplishments of men and women with disabilities who contributed,  continue to contribute, and wish to contribute to strengthening the  nation's economy. More information may be found at https:(slash)(slash)www.defenseculture.mil/special-observances/. 2.  In October, the Department of Defense (DoD) observes National  Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to acknowledge the  significant contributions of American workers with disabilities.  This period serves as a reaffirmation of the DoD's commitment to  cultivating a supportive work environment that is inclusive and  embraces policies and practices beneficial to all employees, thus  contributing to the overall strength of the workforce. This year's  theme, "Access to Good Jobs for All," underscores the DoD's  dedication to enhancing employment opportunities for individuals  with disabilities. Within the DoD, there is a firm belief that  gainful employment has the power to positively transform lives, and  every worker, irrespective of disability, deserves the opportunity  to thrive in well-compensated roles within a work environment that  upholds principles of fairness and impartiality. The Rehabilitation  Act of 1973, enacted on September 26, 1973, and subsequently  amended, represents a fundamental pillar of the DoD's commitment.  This Act prohibits discrimination based on disability across  various federal activities, including programs administered by  federal agencies, recipients of federal financial assistance,  federal employment, and the employment practices of federal  contractors. 3.  Talent Management 2030, states, “The Marine Corps draws its  collective strength and identity from all Marines, so it is  critical that we prioritize policies that maximize the individual  strengths of every Marine regardless of race, gender, sexual  orientation, creed, or any other marker.”  The Marine Corps is  committed to living the values we defend, treating everyone  equally, and with dignity and respect. As a Service, our focus lies  in not only promoting awareness regarding the inclusion of  individuals with disabilities in the workforce but also in  acknowledging and commemorating their accomplishments. Together,  we can pave the way for more equitable and supportive policies that  are advantageous for all, ultimately fostering a more adaptable and  resilient workforce. 4.  The Marine Corps is committed to upholding values of dignity  and respect for all individuals, regardless of their inherent  traits. By establishing a professional environment free from social  and institutional obstacles, we aim to create a space where Marines  can fully recognize and embrace their capabilities.  5.  Release authorized by Brigadier General David R. Everly,  Director, Manpower Plans and Policy Division, Manpower and Reserve  Affairs.//