We celebrate inclusion because it's setting a standard that should be the norm, but itsn't yet – a world where everyone feels welcome, valued, and seen. Accessibility should be part of every design, not an afterthought, and inclusion can’t be something we leave for someone else to handle.

 

Each of us has a responsibility to step in, make changes, and create spaces that reflect true diversity. Yet, the journey toward inclusion often comes with sacrifice; it can require sharing our vulnerabilities so that others can understand, or pioneering new 'first's' creating platforms where we can lift others up to be heard and seen too.

 

Many who lead this work have faced personal challenges to pave the way for others, putting themselves on the line so future generations won’t have to.  By coming together to celebrate, we honour their courage and remind ourselves that each step we take makes it easier for someone else to take their own.

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