WHEREAS, workplaces across our state that are welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are critical to healthy communities and a strong economy; and

WHEREAS, people with disabilities nationally and in Maine have achieved record-breaking labor force participation since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, as people make the most of technological advances, remote access, and job opportunities during a time of low unemployment rates; and

WHEREAS, while the employment of persons with disabilities ages 16 to 64 in Maine has seen significant gains, it is still far less than the percentage of Maine people without disabilities; and

WHEREAS, it is important that the State of Maine prepare all youth, including those with disabilities, for meaningful careers and an adulthood that includes employment; and

WHEREAS, Maine is an Employment First state, which requires that state agencies providing services to people with disabilities, including those with autism, intellectual/developmental disability, behavioral health, blindness and other sensory needs, offer employment as the first and preferred option; and

WHEREAS, the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 marks a major milestone in preventing discrimination, protecting people with disabilities in law, and promoting employment and independence; and

WHEREAS, through activities this month we advance access and equity by reinforcing the value and talent that people with disabilities bring to our workplaces and communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the great State of Maine, do hereby proclaim the month of October 2023 as

Disability Employment Awareness Month

throughout the State of Maine and I urge all citizens to recognize this observance.

In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed GIVEN under my hand at Augusta this nineteenth day of September Two Thousand Twenty Three