Acceptance, Inclusivity, Ableism, and Other Stuff

Haven’t we gone a bit overboard?

The serenity prayer Pixabay

The release of the recent film, Snow White, has ruffled feathers. In particular, I’m thinking of a remark by someone I know, that it was ableism for Snow White to say that one wouldn’t be accepted if one didn’t remember names. It was pointed out that if one was autistic, or had some other disability, then one wouldn’t be able to remember names, and, therefore, it was very ableist to say that one wouldn’t be accepted if one didn’t remember names.

The sad truth is that regardless of whether one is ableist or not, it’s unlikely that one will be accepted by someone if one cannot remember their name. It’s also true that there are a vast number of things that makes one unacceptable to various groups of people.

It might be the way one dresses, the accent one speaks in, the level of one’s education, one’s class, how much money one has, what sort of looks one has, how one dresses, whether one lies with a straight face or a dainty smile, or a thousand other things. Acceptance can never be guaranteed.

There is the opposite as well. If one were to force acceptance, then what happens to the right of association? Are we then forced to mix with those whom we do not enjoy or those with whom we have nothing in common?

Inclusivity

I see a lot of mention of this word — inclusivity. I’m not exactly sure what it means, and what it refers to.

Google defines inclusivity as follows.

Inclusivity refers to creating environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and has equal opportunities, regardless of their background or characteristics. It’s about actively embracing diversity and ensuring that all individuals can participate and contribute fully.

Does inclusivity refer only to the work environment? It appears not. I asked Google if inclusivity included social events. This was the reply.

Yes, inclusivity is relevant and important when planning social events, aiming to ensure everyone feels welcome, respected, and able to participate fully, regardless of their background or needs.