Accepting neurodiversity and promoting inclusion

Empathy Building

Narrating success stories and sharing experiences of neurodivergent individuals can help to humanise their journeys. This would also help neurodiverse individuals in feeling more welcomed. Organise awareness days or workshops highlighting neurodivergent achievements.

Inclusive Practices

As a community, if we foster environments where neurodivergent individuals feel accepted and valued, this would help to create an atmosphere that promotes inclusion. By encouraging accommodations, such as quiet spaces, alternative learning methods, or modified work environments and using language that is easy for everyone to follow, we are walking in the right path towards inclusion.

Language Matters

How we address an individual is very essential. It is important to not address a person according to their diagnosis and addressing them respectfully by their preferred name. Respect individual preferences (e.g. person with autism vs. autistic person). Replace terms like “suffering from” with “living with” or “has.”

Here are some essential tools for parents or caregivers with children on the autism spectrum. (Source: Freepik)

Encourage Allyship

Teaching people how to support their neurodivergent peers effectively. Listen to neurodivergent individuals’ stories without making assumptions about their needs or experiences. Advocate for accommodations in schools, workplaces, or public spaces (e.g., sensory-friendly environments, flexible schedules).

Don’t just be aware — participate in advocacy efforts and volunteer to support organisations that help in achieving this goal, whether in education, employment or personal development.

The concept of diversity encompasses a multitude of dimensions and at its core lies the intricate interplay of various identities and experiences. “Embracing Diversity: The Intersectional Experience” explores the nuanced intersections of race, gender, sexuality, class, ability and other facets of identity. This concept note outlines the importance, challenges and opportunities in embracing diversity through an intersectional lens, recognising the multifaceted nature of individuals and communities.

Inclusion is about embracing diversity. It is a practice of creating an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected and supported, regardless of their differences across ability, socio-economic status, caste, and gender. Embracing diversity aims to create an inclusive and equitable environment by acknowledging and valuing the unique contributions and diverse experiences following the intersectional approach. It is important to continually assess and adapt these practices to ensure they meet the evolving needs of the society.

Keeping the above as an objective in mind, the Department of Special Education, SNDT Women’s University is organising their third International Conference on Education (ICE3) in collaboration with Jai Vakeel Foundation on the theme, “Embracing Diversity: The Intersectional Experience”, from January 9-11, 2025, at the Garware Club House, Mumbai. There are 17 international distinguished speakers from different parts of the world presenting in this conference.

Prof. Richard Rose Emeritus Professor Northampton University, UK, is the keynote speaker. The chairperson of the National regulatory body Rehabilitation Council of India, Dr Sharanjit Kaur will be the chief guest in the inaugural ceremony. There are more than 35 national presenters conducting workshops, panel discussions, fireside chats, and didactic sessions.