What inclusion looks like

Inclusivity means making sure everyone, regardless of their differences, feels safe, accepted and welcomed.

“Regardless of their differences” may refer to the differences you can see, like appearances. It also includes the broad spectrum of what may be invisible to you:

• Relative health and wellness, including any physical disabilities or those related to learning, attention, mental health and chronic pain
• Education, Including one’s access to and quality of it
• Environmental conditions they live in
• Financial status and stability
• Gender identity and sexual orientation
• Lived experiences, including being marginalized, discriminated against or harassed
• Cultural background
• And so much more.

We never really know what someone else is going through in any given moment. Outside of our inner circles and social networks, we rarely know who a person is. We don’t know what drives them or what makes them the way they are. But, as one person to another, we hopefully can see and appreciate the value each of us brings.

We can choose to be kind. We can choose to treat people with respect and dignity. And we can choose to create safer, more accepting and welcoming environments.

By celebrating our differences, we can make a difference.