Ways to be Inclusive

Disability will impact all of us at some point in our lives. You might know someone with a disability, have a child or family member that you care for, or you may gain a disability later in life. Essentially, disability is a part of all of our experiences. This is why we are committed to ensuring that every single person, no matter what the disability, is 100% included and 100% empowered. To achieve this type of a society, everyone has a part to play. Here's some tips about how you can be more inclusive in your daily life.

Remember:

• - It's okay to offer your help to someone, but respect their boundaries if they say no.
• - It's okay to ask people about their disabilities after you’ve gotten to know someone, and it's also okay for them not to talk about it.
• - Don't assume someone doesn't have a disability just because they aren't using mobility aids. Not all disabilities are visible.
• - When you're talking with wheelchair users for more than a few minutes, sit down so you are eye level with that person.
• - It's okay to use words like "see", "hear", "walk" and "run" when you're talking to people with disabilities.
• - It's okay to ask people who have speech-related disabilities to repeat what they said if you didn't understand the first time.
• - If an interpreter is helping you speak with a deaf person, make sure you talk to the deaf person and not the interpreter.
• - Never pet or play with service dogs. They can't be distracted from the job they are doing.
• - Make sure to consider accessibility when planning social events with disabled friends. Ask restaurants, party halls, or other venues if they are accessible beforehand.
• - Don't park in accessible parking spots unless you need to, and never block curb cuts, sidewalks, or driveways.

More about inclusion:

• Myths and facts about people with disabilities.
• Disability Etiquette: Keep these tips in mind
• What does it mean to have disability pride?