Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it is a necessary practice that strengthens our communities and workplaces. When we talk about disability awareness, we are talking about recognizing and valuing a significant portion of our global population. In fact, an estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disability, representing about 16% of the world’s population.
However, navigating the calendar for disability awareness can sometimes be confusing. Different organizations and countries recognize different months for specific focuses, ranging from employment rights to developmental disabilities. Whether you are a business owner looking to update your HR policies, an educator planning a curriculum, or an individual wanting to be a better ally, understanding these dates is the first step toward meaningful support.
This guide clarifies the key dates for 2026, explains the difference between the various observances, and offers simple, practical ways you can contribute to a more inclusive world.
When is Disability Awareness Month observed in 2026?
There is no single “Disability Awareness Month.” Instead, there are specific months dedicated to different aspects of the disability community. The two most prominent observances in the United States occur in March and October.
March 2026: National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is designated as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (NDDAM). This observance focuses specifically on the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities (such as autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome) in all facets of community life.
Additionally, some educational organizations, such as the California Teachers Association, recognize March broadly as National Disabilities Awareness Month. This is often the time when schools and local communities hold events to discuss barriers and celebrate the contributions of neighbors with disabilities.
October 2026: National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
For the business world, October is the primary focus. NDEAM is led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). It celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of inclusive hiring practices.
While March focuses on community living and developmental conditions, October focuses on economic empowerment and workplace equity.
Other key dates to know
- July: Disability Pride Month (celebrating the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act).
- December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities (a global observance sanctioned by the UN).
What are the themes for 2026?
Each year, these observances engage the public through specific themes that reflect the current goals of the disability rights movement.
NDEAM Theme (October)
The theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month evolves annually. For context, the 2025 theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.” Looking ahead to 2026, the Department of Labor has noted that the theme and graphics will honor a major national milestone: America’s 250th anniversary.
This upcoming Semiquincentennial provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the role of people with disabilities throughout American history and their essential place in the nation’s future workforce.
NDDAM Theme (March)
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) typically leads the campaign for March. Recent themes have focused on “Worlds Imagined” and looking beyond barriers. The specific theme for 2026 will generally be released closer to the date, often highlighting how people with and without disabilities come together to form strong, diverse communities.
Why is disability inclusion important?
Creating an inclusive environment matters because it ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society. It is about removing the structural and social barriers that prevent people from accessing healthcare, education, and employment.
Health equity and access
People with disabilities often face unfair conditions that lead to health inequities. According to the World Health Organization, individuals with disabilities have twice the risk of developing conditions like depression, asthma, and diabetes compared to those without disabilities. Promoting awareness helps drive the systemic changes needed to close this gap.
The talent advantage
In the workplace, inclusion is a strategic advantage. Diverse teams bring diverse perspectives, which drives innovation. When businesses ensure their recruitment processes and workspaces are accessible, they tap into a massive, often underutilized talent pool. Recognizing this value is the core purpose of the October NDEAM observance.
How can organizations and individuals participate?
You do not need a large budget or a complex strategy to make a difference. meaningful participation often starts with education and communication. Here are practical ways to get involved in 2026.
Review and update policies
Use these awareness months as an annual reminder to check your internal policies. Are your digital documents accessible to screen readers? do you have a clear process for employees to request reasonable accommodations? Ensuring your “house is in order” is the most authentic way to celebrate.
Educational training
Host a “lunch and learn” session or a workshop. You can use free resources provided by the Campaign for Disability Employment to facilitate discussions. Training supervisors on disability etiquette and accommodation laws helps build a culture of trust where employees feel safe disclosing their needs.
Mentorship programs
October is an excellent time to participate in Disability Mentoring Day, which typically takes place on the third Wednesday of the month. This promotes career development for students and job seekers with disabilities through job shadowing and hands-on experience.
Visible support
Simple gestures of visibility matter. Displaying the official 2026 NDEAM poster in break rooms or sharing social media posts with the hashtag #NDEAM helps normalize the conversation. It signals to your employees and customers that you are a safe and welcoming space.
Moving from awareness to action
Awareness months in March and October serve as important calendar markers, but the goal is year-round inclusion. The actions you take during these months—whether it is fixing a website accessibility error, hiring a candidate with a disability, or simply learning new terminology—should lay the groundwork for permanent change.
By understanding the dates and the “why” behind them, we can all contribute to a society where barriers are removed and talent is celebrated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are there two Disability Awareness Months?
Disability Awareness is recognized in both March and October, but each month serves a distinct purpose. March is National Disabilities Awareness Month, established to increase public understanding and appreciation of the contributions made by individuals with disabilities. Meanwhile, October highlights National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), focusing specifically on workplace inclusion, equity, and the vast potential of an inclusive workforce. Both observances aim to reduce stigma and promote positive change in society but do so through different lenses of education and outreach.
How can you support Disability Awareness Month?
Supporting Disability Awareness Month, whether in March or October, can be both impactful and simple. Start by educating yourself and others about disability rights and the importance of accessibility. Advocating for inclusion in your community or workplace is another powerful step—this could involve reviewing policies, ensuring accessibility standards are met, or hosting awareness events. Purchasing from businesses owned by individuals with disabilities or donating to related organizations can also make a difference. Lastly, actively listening to and amplifying the voices of people with disabilities is indispensable in fostering a more inclusive world.