Inclusion is an ATTITUDE!

Inclusion is an attitude, a mind-set; a way of thinking that then translates into a certain way of acting, an inclusive way of acting.

Inclusion is not a place, a program or a project; it is a philosophy.

Inclusion is not a favor; it is a right.

Inclusion is not about being kind or compassionate; it is about respecting and valuing others.

Being in the same room with other people or living in the same community with other people does not mean you are being included.  Community inclusion happens when all citizens, regardless of our diversity of abilities, have full access to education, employment, and housing, as well as recreational and social opportunities alongside their typical, non-disabled, peers.   Community inclusion happens when everyone is invited to participate in all aspects of community life. 

Community inclusion looks like this:

* Shirley, a woman with cerebral palsy, works at a local office and goes for lunch and after-work outings with her co-workers. 

* Adam, who has Down syndrome, is an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. 

* Julie, a non-verbal eight year old, attends regular classes at her local elementary school, where she is making many friends.

* Mike, who lives with blindness, is a scripture reader in his church on Sunday.   

* Steve, a young man with a cognitive disability, is training with a group of other runners, to participate in a half marathon. 

Inclusion means we are all better when we are together.

“If we are to achieve a richer culture we must weave one in which each diverse human gift will
find a fitting place.”    

- Margaret Mead