Reflecting on Inclusion in 2024 – Navigating Inclusion

Reigniting a Passion for Inclusion

Delving back into Peter Downs’ exploration of the “7 Pillars of Inclusion” alongside Timothy R. Clark’s compelling narrative on choosing inclusion deliberately has reignited my passion for this subject. Their perspectives have not only rejuvenated my interest in blogging but have also strengthened my resolve to explore inclusion in all its facets throughout 2024.

The Evolution of the “7 Pillars of Inclusion”

When I first read the “7 Pillars of Inclusion” developed by Peter Downs, I was struck by how these principles—access, choice, communication, and others—could transform environments to be genuinely inclusive. In 2024, these pillars have taken on new dimensions. We now see them applied not just in recreation and sports but in digital accessibility, inclusive employment, and social media platforms, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate in the rapidly evolving digital age.

Diversity as a Fact, Inclusion as a Choice

Timothy R. Clark’s phrase, “Diversity is a fact, inclusion is a choice,” resonates even more today. We have witnessed significant technological advancements that facilitate inclusion, yet the choice to implement these innovations remains uneven across sectors. It is a reminder that while technology can enable inclusion, the decision to make environments inclusive still requires intention.

Personal Reflections on Participation and Engagement

The world unfolds differently when you navigate it with a disability—every curb, doorway, and stairway presents a potential obstacle or opportunity, depending on how they are designed. It is these everyday elements, shaped by seemingly small decisions made by individuals and organizations, that can dramatically alter the accessibility of environments.

The Importance of Accessible Design

The principles of accessible design, which aim to create environments that are usable by all individuals, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, have never been more pertinent. Accessible design encompasses various strategies and considerations, from architectural features to digital interfaces, all aimed at removing barriers and promoting inclusion.

There has been notable progress in implementing accessible design in smart city initiatives. Features such as tactile paving and audio signals at pedestrian crossings have been introduced, significantly improving urban living for people with visual impairments. Accessible design plays a crucial role in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society, where everyone can participate fully and independently. As cities grow and technology becomes even more embedded in our lives, ensuring that everyone can navigate both physical and digital spaces is crucial.

Looking Forward

As we move forward, the principles of inclusion should continue to influence our approach to innovation and development. Emphasizing the need for environments that not only meet basic accessibility standards but also aim for universal design is crucial. Such environments should be practical and advantageous for everyone, regardless of their abilities.

To learn More

For those looking to deepen their understanding, here are some initial resources to get you started:

[1] Community Toolbox: Tactics for Modifying Access, Barriers, and Opportunities

[2] Community Toolbox: Ensuring Access for People with Disabilities

References

[1] Play by the Rules: The 7 Pillars of Inclusion

[2] Play by the Rules: The 7 Pillars of Inclusion

[3] Forbes Magazine: Diversity Is A Fact, Inclusion Is A Choice