One of the most talked-about topics recently has been the topic of diversity and inclusion. There are many ways to define inclusion, but to keep things simple, let's define it as allowing all kinds of people into a group, no matter how different they are. Being different is what makes us each unique, but inclusiveness is what makes us a community.
Inclusiveness can be defined as "actively incorporating people of diverse backgrounds and groups." But, most importantly, focusing on everyone's challenge and providing the tools to succeed and be part of the community.
The following video, Inclusion Makes the World More Vibrant, on YouTube is a video example of what inclusion is and how it makes the world a better place. Find it under Resources at the end of this post.
Inclusion is a model of thinking. We should think about how we can make our communities inclusive in our everyday life and find ways to create a future where a community stands for All. The following scenarios are real-life examples that lack inclusion. Try reading it to yourself and think of ways on how you can make it inclusive. Then share it in the comments!
Your town is building a new community pool. The pool will have slides, diving boards, and even a jacuzzi tub. The main pool is handicap accessible, but there are only stairs for the jacuzzi and slides.
At your favorite park, there are monuments to celebrate facts and figures important to the state. Your sibling who is visually impaired or blind is always asking you what those monuments are.
There is always a St. Patrick's Day or July 4th celebration at work. Yet your co-workers are from diverse backgrounds, Asians, African Americans, and Hispanics. And not everyone relates to those holidays.
Practicing inclusion as a model of thinking is a step to a brighter future. We encourage readers to think about using your privilege like race, ability to see and hear, or influences to help others. Privilege is anything that gives you an advantage over others. All youth and young adults ages 13-26 can connect with us to talk on common-like themes on the SPAN Youth Chat. Find the link to register under Resources (below).
Author,
Jeremy Hayer
Resources:
The SPAN Youth Chat: The SPAN Youth Chat
Inclusion Makes the World More Vibrant: https://youtu.be/QXY5TyCUTlo
Living Safely with Disabilities and Special Health Needs grant survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LivingSafelyWithDisabilities
Subscribe to SPAN’s YouTube channel: SPAN Parent Advocacy Network
Link to SPAN’s website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN’s Youth In the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We’re here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726
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