Diversity and inclusion are two of some of the concept that make the world a better place. They mean accepting and celebrating differences among people. When we talk about diversity, we refer to the different ways people are different from each other. Inclusion means making sure that people feel welcomed, loved, respected, and valued, no matter their differences.
Imagine going to a new school or workplace where you don't know anyone. You might feel nervous because you don’t know anyone, and you might look different from the others. If the people around you make you feel welcome and respected, they make sure you feel comfortable, no matter where you come from. This is inclusion.
One real life example of diversity and inclusion was when I gained admission into the university. I'm an igbo lady but schooled in a Yoruba land, when I got to school I found it difficult to fit in because I couldn't understand the language and people always converse in their dialect. I tried as much as I could to fit in and talk to people but it was not easy.
There are these sisters who stays close to my lodge then, they were also students at the school so I got close to them and they helped me and make me feel loved, whenever I was with them I felt like I was a Yoruba girl and was part of them and I began to understand the language little by little.
Inclusion also helps break down barriers. Think about someone with a disability. If society doesn't make room for them, they may feel left out or excluded. But when schools, businesses, or communities make efforts to include people with disabilities like providing ramps or giving extra time for tests, they are showing true inclusion. It’s important to remember that everyone has something important to contribute, no matter their abilities.
However, not every place is perfect when it comes to diversity and inclusion. Sometimes, people feel left out or discriminated against because of who they are. This can be because of different reasons such as racism, gender, or other forms of prejudice.
Diversity and inclusion are about respect and kindness. It’s about seeing the good in others, even if they seem different from us. It’s about understanding that we all have something important to offer, no matter where we come from or what we look like. By embracing diversity and practicing inclusion, we make the world a better, richer, and more beautiful place for everyone.
This is in response to the day 8 of the #decemberinleo initiative.