Troop Support disability employment awareness month event highlights inclusion, celebrates differences

PHILADELPHIA -

Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support observed National Disability Employment Awareness Month with an event highlighting this year's theme, "Access to Good Jobs for All," on Oct. 10.

In her opening remarks, DLA Troop Support Deputy Commander, Kishayra J. Lambert, reinforced the importance of disabled employee in achieving Troop Support's mission.

"Today's event helps bring awareness to companies who employ Americans with disabilities and partner with us to provide the warfighter and our other customers with the items they need when they need it," Lambert said. "DLA is committed to hiring practices that increase participation of Americans with disabilities, including wounded warriors, in our workforce."

The event included a presentation by Emory Siegrist, a disabled Navy veteran and current Source America employee, who discussed the importance of prioritizing employment of disabled Americans.

"I hope that you all know we're capable of great things if we're just given the chance and the environment to grow," Siegrist said. "It is remarkable when people with disabilities are given the chance for employment and given a chance."

After the program, audience members had the opportunity to walk through an expo that included displays from more than 20 vendors detailing their work with disabled employees.

Rene King, Continuous Process Improvement division chief, explained that she learned a lot from the expo.

"I found it very informative to speak with each vendor as I visited their displays," King said. "Learning more about how these companies help DLA achieve its mission while employing disabled Americans is significant. Providing opportunities for those with handicaps helps so many people have a sense of fulfillment. All of us need to feel this sense of purpose."

In his White House NDEAM proclamation, President Joe Biden expressed his appreciation for the accomplishments of disabled Americans and called for greater inclusion.

"America's economy is stronger when every American has an opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully," Biden wrote. "During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we honor the incredible contributions of disabled Americans to our country and economy…[and] we recommit to opening the doors of opportunity wider for people with disabilities, making our Nation more equal, accessible, and fair."

This event was co-sponsored by the Troop Support Equal Employment Opportunity Office, Small Business Office and the Construction and Equipment supply chain.

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