Should the letter "A" be added to DEI?
I’ve noticed people advocating for the letter “A” to be added to the acronym DEI. DEI stands for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, the addition of the “A” would represent Accessibility. For me, adding it doesn’t feel right. Now, please hear me out before assuming I don’t care about accessibility.
As someone who needs accessibility to be part of the conversation and implemented, for my own inclusion, I view it as an integral part of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Without accessibility, I don’t feel like I belong, in a group, workplace, or elsewhere. Without it, I don't feel like I’m receiving equitable access or opportunity. Without accessibility, I feel there can be no true inclusion.
Today I wanted to share a graphic I created hopefully showing how for me accessibility is already an integral part of DEI.
P.s
I am not saying don't use it, but if you are going to, at least live up to it and be actually accessible.
#TuesdayThoughts #DisabilityInclusion #DisabledBySociety #Accessibility
Image Description: A Disabled By Society graphic. A dark background filled with solid coloured stick people and outlines of people representing visible and non-visible disabilities. The title reads "Accessibility in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, (or whatever acronym you use)". Below are five text boxes with a statement and clipart. They read: 1. Diversity acknowledges our differences, including our access needs - the global accessibility symbol, a person inside a circle, only the circle has been made by other people. 2. Equality ensures everyone can engage equally - two people on each side of an equal symbol. 3. Equity considers individual circumstances - three people, one standing on one level, the second on a second level and the third person with visible Disability on a third level. 4. Inclusion is achieved when accessibility is part of the conversation and implemented - a flow of people, one wheelchair user, one person using a laptop and one holding something. 5. Belonging happens when Disabled people are accepted, valued, seen and heard - a heart inside squiggles.
