Can We Talk About This For A Sec.....

Disability Inclusion

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“My disability exists not because I use a wheelchair, but because the broader environment isn’t accessible” - Stella Young

A few months ago, I found myself weighed down and distressed by the lack of disability inclusion. Conversations that didn't sit right with me prompted a heaviness, and I began questioning various aspects of the issue.

Church, often seen as a guiding light in society, left me wondering why disability inclusion seemed lacking within its walls. Why were so many churches inaccessible to people with disabilities? How could we generate genuine interest and open conversations about disability inclusion?

During that time, someone made an offhand remark about how disability awareness and training was just ticking a box. It struck a chord with me. Was it possible that our efforts were simply token gestures rather than genuine attempts at fostering inclusion?

A few months prior, I had a challenging experience at airport security. Due to my disability, Erbs Palsy, which restricts the movement of my right arm. The whole airport security ordeal made me anxious because I couldn't raise my arm above my head, which is required when walking through the security machines. I did everything I could to avoid walking through the large security device, but despite my efforts, I was pulled aside for a thorough pat-down.

I tried to explain my disability and the reason behind my restricted movement, but it dawned on me that the security team had no way of knowing whether I genuinely had a disability or if I was deliberately being uncooperative. Although the security team were nice and simply doing their job, the incident caused a scene, holding up the security line and inconveniencing other passengers.

Regardless of the kindness shown by the security team, I felt mortified, humiliated, and extremely self-conscious.

Throughout my life, there have been numerous situations where because of my disability I felt embarrassed, awkward, and self-conscious. I've had to explain many a time why I can't do certain things or cooperate in the way people expect. People often give me curious looks or ask questions when they don't immediately perceive anything 'wrong' or visibly unusual about me.

Flash forward. I found myself sat deep in thought about disability inclusion, unable to concentrate. In an attempt to articulate my emotions and in an effort to process my thoughts, I poured out my feelings onto the pages of my notebook, giving birth to a raw, heartfelt piece I call 'The Inclusion Talk.'

Through sharing this piece of writing, my aim is to raise awareness and ignite conversations about disability inclusion. I hope that it serves as a catalyst to challenge societal norms and dismantle the barriers that hinder genuine inclusion. Together, we can work towards a world that embraces diversity, fostering an inclusive and accepting society where disability inclusion is not an afterthought but an integral part of our collective journey.

I believe that by giving voice to our experiences and opening up dialogue, we can spark transformation and create a future where individuals with disabilities are seen, heard, and valued

I hope to inspire others to reflect on their own beliefs and attitudes, encouraging them to challenge misconceptions and biases. May this piece of writing serve as a beacon of hope, igniting change and transforming society into one that values and embraces the beauty of diversity.

THE INCLUSION TALK - PREFACE

I wrote this poem as an expression of the need for true disability inclusion. Calling for action and change rather than empty words and discussions. I express my yearnings for a world where inclusivity goes beyond mere rhetoric, where people genuinely walk the walk of inclusion.

This piece of writing acknowledges the tendency of society to focus on things that are obvious and evident, often neglecting those with hidden disabilities and urges readers to look beyond what meets the eye. I highlight the importance of approaching disability with sensitivity, vulnerability, and a genuine desire to understand. I emphasise the frustration and isolation that individuals with disabilities face due to misunderstanding. I wanted to invite readers to imagine the inner battles that individuals with unseen disabilities face daily and delves into the challenges faced by individuals with less distinguished disabilities and how they can often feel misunderstood and ignored by society.

Woven throughout the lines of the poem is an underlying cry for change and transformation, urging for an examination of damaging beliefs and the establishment of a new paradigm.

I share my hopes for a society with a broader understanding of disability beyond what is seen on the surface, a society that recognises the diversity of disabilities and the unique challenges they present.

The piece points out the transformative power of education and understanding, aiming to create a changed world where people with disabilities no longer have to tolerate insensitivities. The poem suggests that society can break down the barriers that isolate individuals with disabilities, where individuals with disabilities are fully included, valued, seen, heard and supported, where society fully embraces their unique perspectives, talents, and contributions.

Ultimately, I speak about the longing for a world where individuals with disabilities are not marginalised or made to feel invisible, where transformation and restoration pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting society. I remind readers of the importance of creating spaces to accommodate and uplift those who face challenges that may not be readily apparent. By doing so, society can bridge the gaps of understanding. I conclude by challenging readers to listen, understand, and actively work towards creating a more inclusive world that values and embraces the worth of all individuals, regardless of their disabilities.