Story perspectives

South Dakota Honors Leaders in Disability Inclusion

10/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

In October 2025, the South Dakota Governor's Awards honored four individuals and three organizations for disability inclusion in the workplace.
Shawn Lyons of Pierre received the Outstanding Employee with a Disability Award for his work with Game Fish and Parks Department.
Jim Hoxie was among other honorees, with Eagle Butte Co-op Association and Ken’s SuperFair Foods.
Governor Larry Rhoden emphasized South Dakota's leadership in disability inclusion during October 8 ceremony.

History

Historical Context

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed into law by President George H.W. Bush on July 26, 1990, marked a significant advancement in civil rights for individuals with disabilities. This legislation prohibits discrimination and mandates reasonable accommodations in the workplace, reflecting a broader movement for disability rights that gained momentum in the 1980s, including the impactful "Capitol Crawl" protest advocating for the ADA's passage.

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Story summary

In October 2025, the South Dakota Governor's Awards honored four individuals and three organizations for disability inclusion in the workplace.
Shawn Lyons of Pierre received the Outstanding Employee with a Disability Award for his work with Game Fish and Parks Department.
Jim Hoxie was among other honorees, with Eagle Butte Co-op Association and Ken’s SuperFair Foods.
Governor Larry Rhoden emphasized South Dakota's leadership in disability inclusion during October 8 ceremony.

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