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Inclusion: What’s Lacking
In the few years prior to the Pandemic and in the years since, society has become more aware of the need for a dialogue, as well as action when it comes to inclusion. One large minority is missing from most of these discussions, in fact it’s the largest minority in the world, encompassing about 20 percent of the world’s population, give or take.
Why are people so afraid to discuss the need for equality and equal access when it comes to those with disabilities? Is it fear, ignorance, maybe a little of both? I have to admit the reality that anyone can become disabled at any time is a frightening thought, but shouldn’t that make us more open to discussions?
There are of course those with disabilities that soar in their professions, sadly though many are not given the chance. why do we think blindness, deafness, or the inability to walk, amputations or any number of disabilities equate to a person being incompetent in what they do? On the other side of the coin, we place them on a pedestal for every little achievement which in itself is an act of ableism.
We need to get to a point as a society at large where we become more comfortable as well as more accommodating to those with disabilities. We need to stop discrimination of those with disabilities in the workplace, In Media, in houses of worship and in society at large.
