The talk of the town seems all about inclusion these days. In the era of climbing great mountains, pushing limits and stumbling upon rolling boulders, we get so self absorbed in our own success stories. Some self-advocates and change-makers explore and discuss a world where everyone is equal. Ironically, it may not be equal. Everything we hear or see can be deceptive at times. Researches are made on inclusive education and it is a very good idea as we also reach out to disability-centric areas. Hats off to all the ideologies that focuses on a variety of ways to reach and teach all types of learners. Though we believe that all children are deserving of climbing great mountains, the bitter truth is that some are even not accessible. Their complex needs at times makes it difficult or their disabilities get them unemployed. As we speak about the opportunities to have those memorable experiences and build non-bridged connections, we actually forget to include them in meaningful and extended support. The dictionary meaning for inclusion is “the practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or mental disabilities and members of other minority groups.”
There is need to eliminate a box of myths and blocks we have built ourselves. Creative juices need a flow of changed mindsets and free will. Inclusion means to include compassion, empathy, to be able to understand another, to tolerate and adjust, to impart love and care amongst the diversity of thoughts.
Besides scholastic achievements and medals, Inclusion I feel is about mindful and easy communication, listening and challenging our irrational thoughts, avoiding assumptions and expectations, being aware of what we truly deserve, our privileges and heritage. It takes nothing but kindness to understand another.
Being accessible opens a door to a welcoming ambience of hope and support, while our attitude embraces inclusion to sensible and meaningful choices in life.
7-6-2021