At the Midland City Council meeting on October 24, Mayor Lori Blong declared October as “Disability Employment Awareness Month.” The proclamation is intended to emphasize the importance of inclusive hiring practices in Midland.
Over 100 community members attended the meeting to show their support, including representatives from Prosperity Employment Outreach, which helps individuals overcome employment barriers. Other attendees included Abilities Ranch, Friendship House, and Diamondback Energy. The company’s Rolling Barista program, which provides employment opportunities for disabled individuals within its corporate offices, was recognized during the event.
Kathleen Kirwan-Haynie, a local disability advocate, was recognized for her work in shaping legislation to protect disabled individuals. Her brother Daniel, who had Down Syndrome, was “denied an organ transplant due to his disability” and passed away in 2015 from kidney failure, according to Kirwan-Haynie. This personal loss fueled her advocacy, leading to the passage of "Daniel's Law," which prevents such discrimination in Texas.
“Daniel was my very special brother, my parents were true disability trailblazers during the 1970s, helping him to work daily at a local nursing home for many years.”
The event drew attention to the community’s commitment to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The declaration aligns with a nationwide push to promote employment equity for people with disabilities.
For more information on upcoming disability-related initiatives, follow updates from Midland Times and the City of Midland's official channels.
Large turnout of disabled community to show support
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs Daniel's Law in Midland, Texas, on November 5, 2021 | Kathleen Kirwan-Haynie
John Norman,District Two rep for Midland City Council and niece, Mayor Lori Blong