OBSERVER Staff Report

Dunkirk Mayor Wilfred Rosas has proclaimed October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in the city.

“Workplaces welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy,” the proclamation states.

It also notes, “In our community, the Resource Center provides training, employment opportunities and support to assist adults with disabilities and other challenges in obtaining and maintaining community employment at approximately 170 businesses.”

Declaring that “individuals with disabilities in the workforce gain a sense of pride, satisfaction and self-worth that comes from earning real wages for performing meaningful work,” Rosas’ proclamation calls upon citizens “to recognize the important message that people with disabilities add value and talent to our workplaces and communities, and to celebrate their many and varied contributions.”

The first National Disability Employment Awareness Month was declared in October 1988 by Congress.