Proclamation - September 23, 2003

State Seal

Proclamation
by the
Governor of the State of Texas

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

In the spring of 2003, eight Texans with disabilities completed their 20-day journey to the base camp of Mount Everest.

Led by mountaineer Gary Guller, the climbers covered a 30-mile trek to reach their destination 17,500 feet above sea level. Participants came from all walks of life and included a physician, a web developer, a teacher, a photographer, a human resources manager, a counselor, a musician and a business owner. Together, these adventurous men and women highlight once again the unlimited potential of people with disabilities, given the opportunity.

Texas businesses and agencies continue to support a strong foundation for the successful employment of all Texans. The four million Texans with disabilities have more opportunities for work than ever before, thanks to the 16,500 private businesses and government facilities that complied with the Texas Accessibility Standards and the 4,000 businesses eligible for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation's Access for All decal.

In addition, the Lone Star State ranks second in the nation for its use of the Job Accommodation Network, a federal service that facilitates the employment and retention of workers with disabilities by providing information on job accommodations, self employment and small business opportunities.

Businesses in Texas utilize best practices in the employment of people with disabilities by promoting and conducting innovative job fairs, using video relay services, increasing access to information technology and customizing work schedules. Texans with disabilities benefit from services or accommodations such as telework, accessible technology, internships and mentoring.

Texas supports National Disability Employment Awareness Month with the theme, "America works best when all Americans work." At this time, therefore, I encourage all Texans to observe this month by recognizing the importance of equal employment opportunities for Texans with disabilities.

Therefore, I, Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim October 2003, Disability Employment Awareness Month in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.

In official recognition whereof, I hereby affix my signature this 23rd day of September, 2003.

RICK PERRY (Signature)
GOVERNOR OF TEXAS

Gary expedition coverage from Spring 2003 is here.

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