Know a Texas employer who’s doing disability inclusion right? You’ve got until July 31st to give them the recognition they deserve.
What’s This All About?
The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities just extended the deadline for their annual Lex Frieden Employment Awards – and they’re looking for Texas employers, entrepreneurs, and organizations who’ve gone above and beyond to create truly inclusive workplaces.
This isn’t about meeting the bare minimum legal requirements. These awards celebrate businesses that have made hiring and supporting people with disabilities a real priority, not just a checkbox.
Who Should You Nominate?
Small Business Owner who redesigned their workspace to be fully accessible? Nominate them.
Major Corporation that actively recruits workers with disabilities? They deserve recognition.
Nonprofit that’s created innovative programs for disability employment? Perfect candidate.
Entrepreneur with a disability who’s built a successful business while paving the way for others? This is their moment.
Even know someone who’s spent their career championing disability rights? There’s a Governor’s Trophy for lifetime achievement.
The Awards Up for Grabs
Employer Awards (Small, Medium, Large, or Non-Profit): For workplaces that truly embrace diversity and accessibility
Entrepreneurship Award: For business owners with disabilities who’ve created successful, sustainable companies
Martha Arbuckle Award: For innovative local projects making a real difference
Governor’s Trophy: The big one – lifetime achievement for someone who’s dedicated their career to supporting Texans with disabilities
Here’s the Best Part
It’s completely free to nominate someone. And here’s something cool – employers can nominate themselves! No need to wait for someone else to recognize your great work.
Why This Matters Right Now
We’re celebrating the 80th anniversary of Disability Employment Awareness Month this year. After eight decades, we’re still working to show that people with disabilities bring incredible value to the workforce – and these awards shine a spotlight on the employers who already know that.
The Texas HireAbility campaign (a partnership between the Governor’s Committee, Texas Workforce Commission, and Texas Workforce Solutions) is all about changing minds and highlighting success stories. Your nomination could be the next success story that inspires other employers.
About the Man Behind the Awards
These awards are named after Lex Frieden, one of the architects of the Americans with Disabilities Act. He’s a UT professor, disability rights champion, and someone who’s spent his career making sure people with disabilities have real opportunities. President George W. Bush appointed him to lead the National Council on Disability, and he’s received two Presidential Citations for his work.
Basically, if you’re getting an award named after this guy, you’re in pretty good company.
How to Make It Happen
Deadline: July 31, 2025 (extended – so don’t wait!)
How to Apply: Visit the GCPD website for submission guidelines and nomination forms
Questions? Contact GCPD staff at [email protected] or (512) 463-5739
Cost: Absolutely nothing
The Bottom Line
Since 1979, the Governor’s Committee has been highlighting employers who get it right when it comes to disability inclusion. They’re not just looking for companies that follow the law – they want to celebrate the ones that see hiring people with disabilities as a strength, not a burden.
Your next step: Think about the employers in your community who are doing this work well. Then take 10 minutes to nominate them. It could be the recognition that encourages other businesses to follow their lead.
Because every Texan deserves the chance to contribute their talents to the workforce.
