2018: October brought kudos to workers, those who support them

Access Press
11/10/2018 by Access Press Staff

October was National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Gov. Mark Dayton issued a special proclamation to commemorate the month. The official certificate was presented by the statewide disability organization Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation (MOHR) to two key legislators, Senators Jim Abeler (R-Anoka) and John Hoffman (D-Champlin).

The governor’s proclamation states that Minnesota is committed to providing individuals with disabilities a “continuum of work options that best meet individual needs and choices in a person-centered manner.” It also states that employers are crucial to providing opportunities for work experience, career paths and the dignity that comes through labor.

Individuals with disabilities typically find it more difficult to find work opportunities and are often assisted by nonprofit providers who help with everything from resume writing to job tryouts, job coaching, skill building and training for work. The senators have been strong advocates for people with disabilities.

Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation (MOHR) President Julie Johnson, left, met with Senators Jim Abeler (R-Anoka), John Hoffman (D-Champlin) and Foung Hawj (D-St. Paul) to proclaim Minnesota Disability Employment Awareness Month.

“This is great. We know that people with disabilities want to be part of the community at large in a huge manner and the Olmstead provision tells us that,” said Hoffman. “We, as policymakers want to understand and make that a reality, and this is one step in the right direction. It makes a lot of difference to be able to acknowledge this whole month and say to folks with disabilities that we want to make sure that you’re working and being included in society.”

Abeler echoed Hoffman’s comments. “This is a big deal. We get the privilege to work on this. The real heroes are the people every day who get out of bed and face their challenges or help people who are facing challenges. It’s an honor to work with John and Foung on this, and with you all.”

Hoffman and Abeler were joined by Sen. Foung Hawj (D-St. Paul). “Our state is productive because of the inclusion of people with disabilities,” Hawj said, “I’m glad I’m standing next to the two champions here in our Senate and I’m going to be a third.”