Sometimes people can feel uncomfortable in the presence of a person with a disability because they are not sure how to act or what to say. Interactions may feel awkward or forced, but they don’t have to be. Being inclusive is pretty easy, and everyone benefits when our communities are truly inclusive.
Pippa Cebis, CEO of Mosaic, said disabilities come in many shapes and forms and are not always visible.
“Some people are born with a disability, others get one, often after an accident. Not all disabilities are visible; many are ‘invisible’, such as psychosocial disabilities or early dementia,” said Ms. Cebis.
“Regardless of the kind of disability someone has, nobody should be afraid. A person with a disability has the same human rights as everyone else... so why talk to them, ignore them, or treat them as a stereotype? When our communities are diverse and inclusive, everyone is treated with respect and support to live the life they want to live.”
Here are six easy ways to make our community more inclusive for people with disabilities.
1. Speak directly to a person with a disability
“If you meet a person with a disability who is accompanied by someone else, talk to them directly when you have a conversation or ask a question. If you ignore them and talk to their friend, carer, disabled person, or anyone else, it’s the opposite of inclusion… and it’s just disrespectful,” Ms. Cebis said.
“And don’t assume that a person with a disability isn’t their decision maker. Such assumptions are discouraging and often incorrect.”
2. Avoid Stereotypes
Sometimes people think that everyone with disabilities shares similar experiences, but the reality is that they represent a diverse group of individuals, each with their own unique story.
“It’s important to avoid stereotypes because they can be harmful and often hugely inaccurate. A person with a disability is an individual,” said Ms. Cebis.
3. Always Ask Before Helping
“The fact that someone has a disability does not automatically mean they need or want your help. Even if your actions are well-intentioned, jumping in and assuming they need your help can send the message that you think the person is less capable of doing whatever they’re doing than you are. You remove choice and take away control. Nobody likes to feel powerless or less than someone else’, says Cebis.
4. Actively interacting with people with disabilities
People with disabilities are part of our community and should be treated as such. Everyone – including people with disabilities – should feel seen, heard, and valued. We can do this by dealing actively with individuals, with respect and without assumptions.
5. Do your part to make our community accessible
In a cafe? Ask the person in a wheelchair trying to get through if you can move that chair in front of them and pick up your backpack from the floor where it could get in the way of the wheels.
6. Talk to Your Kids About Disabilities
Talk openly with children about disabilities to break stereotypes and misconceptions. This is important because an inclusive community that values diversity starts with children as they grow into adults.
“We want to introduce, influence, and secure positive long-term changes in society, removing barriers and tackling discriminatory practices to ensure that the rights, interests, and well-being of people with disabilities are achieved, enforced, and protected., said Mrs. Cebis.
“We should live in a community where all people have full and valuable lives with the freedom to make their own choices.”
Mosaic has been supporting people with disabilities and their families since 1992. Visit the website for more information.
