October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
By: Erin Crownover
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), making it the perfect moment to recognize the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities in every aspect of society — including the world of sports and beyond. For audiences new to this topic or just discovering Culxtured’s coverage, here’s why this month matters so much.
Why NDEAM Matters
Every October, NDEAM spotlights the talents, dedication, and achievements of employees with disabilities across every profession. This year, we celebrate the 80th anniversary of NDEAM — marking eight decades of progress in championing the inclusion and contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce.
But there is still work to do.
The 2025 theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” reminds us that inclusion in the workforce isn’t just about compliance or goodwill — it’s about recognizing what every person brings to the table. By uplifting stories from adaptive sports and beyond, we all help build a stronger, more inclusive society.
Disability and Sports: More Than the Game
Sport is powerful not only for those on the field but also for the coaches, trainers, medical professionals, and mentors who support athletes with disabilities every day. After competing, many athletes move into these roles, shaping new generations with their lived experiences and expertise. Their leadership fosters innovation, empathy, and excellence throughout the sporting community.
Real-World Examples: From U.S. Professional Athletes to Workplace Advocates
Athletes with disabilities often extend their impact far beyond competition, using their experiences and insights to enrich workplaces and communities. Many transition into roles as coaches, leaders, and medical professionals, where their unique perspectives drive innovation and inclusion.
Here are a few inspiring examples:
Jerry Holy, who began his journey as a Special Olympics athlete, now contributes his expertise in data and resource management within the Special Olympics organization. His lived experience brings invaluable insight that shapes programs and opportunities for others with disabilities.
Lex Gillette, a five-time Paralympic silver medalist in the long jump, applies his athletic discipline to his role at Intel. As part of their Olympic and Paralympic program office, Lex helps develop accessible technology — ensuring innovation is truly inclusive.
Dr. Rory Cooper combines his experience as a U.S. Army veteran and Paralympian with cutting-edge research leadership at the University of Pittsburgh’s Human Engineering Research Laboratories. His work in assistive technology, including robotic wheelchairs, exemplifies how athletic and academic excellence intersect.
Dr. Kerri Morgan, a track and field Paralympian, balances athletics with her career as a practicing occupational therapist — demonstrating dedication to both sport and health care.
Ezra Frech, a multi-sport Paralympic athlete and co-founder of Angel City Sports in Los Angeles, creates free, year-round access to sports training and competitions for children and adults with physical disabilities.
These stories highlight how athletes with disabilities enrich workplaces while continuing to lead and inspire within and beyond sports.
How to Celebrate and Advocate
Culxtured is proud to share resources for those eager to support and celebrate the disability community — not just in October, but all year round.
For practical ideas and inspiration, visit our : “5 Ways to Celebrate and Advocate for the Disability Community This Month and Year-Round.”
Some actions include:
Hosting or joining inclusive events, discussions, or panels that center disabled voices and experiences.
Reviewing and improving accessibility in physical and digital spaces.
Supporting and amplifying the work and leadership of athletes, coaches, and medical professionals with disabilities.
Moving Forward: How Everyone Can Build Inclusion
Whether you’re new to adaptive sport or learning about disability in the workplace for the first time, the message is clear: Inclusion benefits everyone — fans, athletes, staff, and organizations alike.
Let’s honor this 80-year legacy of NDEAM through our actions. Whether joining a new team, learning something new about disability, or advocating in the workplace, inclusion starts with all of us.
How are you building a more accessible and welcoming world in sports or beyond?
Share your story, show your support, or highlight a leader who inspires you.
Tag us on socials @culxtured and use #NDEAM80 so we can amplify your voice and keep moving the conversation forward.
Discover more about the stories, impact, and legacy of NDEAM & get inspired to spark change
