Fifteen per cent of the world’s population has some kind of disability. This means that one in seven people live with barriers of all kinds. They all deal with at least two of the six dimensions of disability. On the one hand, at least one of the usual dimensions of mobility, hearing, vision, cognitive and mental, and on the other #The85.
When we understand that disability is not a characteristic exclusive to a few, but rather a part of human diversity, we stop thinking in terms of ‘us’ and ‘them’.
#TheOn15 are not superheroes, they are exactly like you
On many occasions, people with disabilities are admired as if they were superheroes. And although the resilience they demonstrate is undeniable, that gaze can be counterproductive. It is not about ‘overcoming’ disability or burdening them with the role of being perennial examples of inspiration. It is about having the same rights and opportunities, about being recognised as capable professionals and about contributing to the world of work and society on equal terms.
This is where true inclusion comes in: seeing each person as a whole, without limiting labels. They are not #LosDel15, they are co-workers, colleagues, friends, fathers, mothers, grandparents, with and without mortgages.
And the best way to integrate them is to understand that they are part of the same puzzle as you. And to fit in, we must assume that they have the same profile.
The disruption we need: transforming the mentality of #UsFrom85
Inclusion is not just about opening up spaces for people with disabilities; it is also about challenging the perception of #UsFrom85. The disruption is not in the adaptation of tools or in diversity policies (although they are essential). The real revolution is in the mentality of those who do not have a disability and still do not fully understand the importance of inclusion.
Empowering #LosDel15 is not enough if #LosDel85 are not willing to move, to question themselves, to learn. If you still see disability as something that belongs to #LosDel15, or as something that requires action, but not necessarily from you, then you have not yet understood the point.
An act of will. Be part of the change
Inclusion is not an act of charity or regulatory compliance. It is an act of will, of a conscious decision to build a world where everyone has a place, regardless of their abilities. And this is a shared responsibility.
A year later, I #FeelPro, but not for opening up opportunities for this group of colleagues, nor for accepting and completing the challenge of inclusion, but for having moved on to #ThemOf100 and no longer having superheroes around.
If you are part of #LosDel85, ask yourself: What are you doing to ensure that #LosDel15 are recognised as equals? Inclusion is not an option, it is a requirement.
The challenge is not just for them. It is for you. It is for everyone. Because in the end, diversity benefits us all. It is time to change our approach and start taking action.
