Diversity & Inclusion Spotlight - October 2026
Disability Employment Awareness Month
& LGBTQ+ History Month
Each October, we recognize two observances that call on us to build a more inclusive workplace and community: National Disability Employment Awareness Month and LGBTQ+ History Month.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, established by the U.S. Department of Labor, honors the contributions of workers with disabilities and reaffirms our commitment to equitable hiring, accessible workplaces, and inclusive career growth.
LGBTQ+ History Month celebrates the achievements and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, offering a chance to reflect on the progress made toward equality and the work still ahead. Locally, Santa Clara County offers meaningful ways to get involved:
- Disability Awareness Day, held on October 1, 2026, and annually on the second Thursday of October at San Jose City Hall Rotunda and Plaza, is a free event that connects job seekers with employers, educational resources, and recreation programs that support people with disabilities.
- The Santa Clara County LGBTQ Summit, hosted by the County's Employee Services Agency and Office of LGBTQ Affairs on October 1, brings together employees and community members for workshops on workplace inclusion and career opportunities.
- The Santa Clara County Office of Education's LGBTQ+ History Month Showcase honors students, educators, and advocates championing inclusivity in local schools.
- The Billy DeFrank LGBTQ+ Community Center, San Jose's longtime LGBTQ+ community hub on The Alameda, hosts History Month programming, support groups, and cultural events open to the public throughout October.
- Branches of the Santa Clara County Library District offer LGBTQ+ History Month book displays, author talks, and discussion programs throughout the month.
Whether attending a job fair, a summit, or a community event, October offers many ways to learn, connect, and champion inclusion both on the job and in the community. Let's use this month to recognize the talents and stories of colleagues and neighbors with disabilities and those in the LGBTQ+ community, and to keep working toward workplaces where everyone can thrive.
