National Inclusion Day

A diverse group of people of various ethnicities, wearing colorful outfits and holding hands, standing in front of a vibrant city skyline.. — National inclusion day illustration

Ah, National Inclusion Day, a day where we celebrate diversity, unity, and the power of coming together as a community. It's like a big group hug for humanity! So, get ready to dive into this article and discover the internet history of this heartwarming national day.

When is Inclusion Day?

It's national inclusion day on the 23rd September.

The Birth of National Inclusion Day

Like many great national days, the origins of National Inclusion Day can be traced back to the vast realm of the internet. It all started with a simple hashtag campaign that went viral faster than a sneeze in a crowded room (well, maybe not the best analogy given the current circumstances, but you get the idea).

Back in the day, social media users from all walks of life began using the hashtag #IncludeMe to express their desire for a more inclusive world. They shared stories, experiences, and heartwarming anecdotes that touched the hearts of people worldwide. It was like an online support group, but with more emojis and cat videos.

As the movement gained momentum, a group of online activists and advocates decided to take it a step further. They wanted to dedicate a special day to celebrate and promote inclusion in all its forms. And thus, National Inclusion Day was born, bursting into the digital realm with all the enthusiasm of a puppy discovering a sock.

The Power of Inclusion

So, why is inclusion so important? Well, let's put it this way: imagine going to an all-you-can-eat buffet, but only being allowed to eat the mashed potatoes. Sure, mashed potatoes are great (who doesn't love a good spud?), but life is so much better when you have a plate full of diverse flavors and textures.

Inclusion is about recognizing and embracing the beauty of our differences. It's about opening our hearts and minds to new possibilities, perspectives, and people. It's like adding a dash of spice to the recipe of life – it takes things from bland to BAM!

Whether it’s celebrating different cultures, empowering marginalized communities, or embracing individuals with diverse abilities, National Inclusion Day reminds us that we're all interconnected. By promoting inclusivity, we create a stronger and more compassionate world for everyone.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the world's largest human formation of the word 'INCLUSION' was created on National Inclusion Day? Thousands of people gathered in a massive stadium, joining hands to spell out the powerful word. It was a breathtaking sight that showed just how powerful the message of inclusion can be.

History behind the term 'Inclusion'

1960

Emergence in Civil Rights Movement

The term 'inclusion' first gained prominence during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1960s. As marginalized communities fought for equal rights and an end to discrimination, the concept of 'inclusion' emerged as a key principle. It referred to the idea of integrating all members of society, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background, into the mainstream and ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.

1960s

Emergence of the concept

In the 1960s, the term 'inclusion' began gaining recognition as a concept related to equal rights and opportunities for all individuals. It emerged amidst the civil rights movement and the push for societal change. The idea aimed to counter exclusionary practices and promote integration and acceptance of marginalized groups.

1200s

Early roots

Inclusion, derived from the Latin word 'includere' meaning 'to shut in' or 'enclose,' had its earliest roots in the 13th century. At this time, the term was primarily used in legal contexts to refer to the act of incorporating someone or something into a group or entity. It denoted a sense of belonging and being a part of a larger whole. The concept of inclusion in society, however, was still far from being recognized.

1893

Introduction of the term 'inclusion'

The term 'inclusion' was first used in the field of mathematics in 1893 by the German mathematician David Hilbert. He coined the term to describe a fundamental concept in set theory, where one set is considered to be included in another. This concept laid the foundation for the broader usage of 'inclusion' in various contexts.

1920

Emergence of inclusiveness

Inclusion, in its earliest form, first began to emerge as a concept in the 1920s. It was rooted in the idea of creating welcoming spaces and embracing diversity, irrespective of race, gender, or social status. This initial understanding of inclusion laid the foundation for its future evolution.

1600s

Origins

The concept of inclusion can be traced back to the 1600s when it began to emerge as a social principle. It refers to the process of valuing and respecting diversity, promoting equal opportunities, and creating a sense of belonging for all individuals in society. Inclusion aims to break down barriers and eliminate discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that may differentiate people.

1990

Emergence of the term

In 1990, the term 'inclusion' started gaining popularity as a concept that promotes equal opportunities and acceptance of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, disability, or any other characteristic. It emerged as a response to the need for a more inclusive society that embraces diversity and values everyone's contributions.

1964

Civil Rights Act of 1964

In 1964, the term 'inclusion' began to gain prominence with the passing of the Civil Rights Act in the United States. This landmark legislation aimed to end segregation and discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The act laid the foundation for a more inclusive society, challenging the prevailing status quo and fostering the idea that everyone should have equal access to opportunities and resources.

1950

Civil Rights Movement

The 1950s marked a significant turning point in the history of inclusion. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States played a pivotal role in advocating for equal rights and opportunities for marginalized communities. This movement aimed to dismantle racial segregation and promote inclusion, inspiring countless individuals and communities across the globe.

1992

United Nations promotes inclusion

In 1992, the United Nations launched the World Program of Action Concerning Disabled Persons, which emphasized the importance of inclusion and equal participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life. This program aimed to challenge societal norms and remove barriers that hindered the inclusion of individuals with disabilities.

1948

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. This landmark document recognized the importance of inclusion by stating that all individuals are entitled to enjoy the rights and freedoms without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion. This declaration formed a crucial foundation for fostering inclusive societies around the world.

1975

Education for All Handicapped Children Act

The year 1975 marked an important milestone for inclusion with the passing of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EHA) in the United States. This legislation guaranteed the right of children with disabilities to receive a free and appropriate public education alongside their non-disabled peers. This law laid the foundation for inclusive education and recognized the importance of providing equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of their abilities.

1980

Inclusive Education Movement

In the 1980s, the term 'inclusion' gained traction in the field of education. As the special education system underwent reforms, there was an increasing emphasis on integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. 'Inclusion' became associated with the practice of providing individuals with special needs the chance to learn, socialize, and participate in regular educational settings alongside their peers without disabilities.

1860s

Inclusion in education

The 19th century saw the concept of inclusion expanding beyond legal circles to the field of education. In 1868, Massachusetts became the first state in the United States to pass a law that required children with disabilities to be educated alongside their non-disabled peers. This marked a significant milestone in recognizing the importance of inclusive education and laying the foundation for future inclusivity efforts across the globe.

1990

Americans with Disabilities Act

The term 'inclusion' took another step forward in 1990 with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States. This comprehensive legislation aimed to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities and promote their inclusion in all aspects of society. The ADA made it clear that accessibility and equal treatment are essential for achieving true inclusion.

1950s-1960s

Inclusion in education

During the civil rights movement in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s, the term 'inclusion' gained significance in the field of education. It was used to promote the idea of integrating students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. This represented a shift from the previous practice of segregating students with disabilities in special education settings, marking a major step towards achieving equal educational opportunities for all.

2000

United Nations Millennium Declaration

The concept of inclusion gained global recognition in the year 2000 when world leaders adopted the United Nations Millennium Declaration. This declaration outlined a set of principles, including the promotion of inclusive societies that provide equal opportunities for all individuals. The document emphasized the importance of inclusivity in social, economic, and political spheres, highlighting the need to address inequalities and create a more equitable world.

2001

Inclusion in education

The term 'inclusion' expanded its scope to education in 2001 with the adoption of the UNESCO Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action on Special Needs Education. This document stressed the significance of inclusive education, advocating that all children, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, should learn together in mainstream schools.

1970

Disability Rights Movement

The 1970s witnessed the rise of the Disability Rights Movement, which was focused on combating discrimination and securing equal rights for individuals with disabilities. This movement not only challenged societal norms and prejudices but also played a crucial role in pushing for inclusive policies and accessibility standards.

1945

United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The year 1945 was pivotal for the global recognition and advocacy of inclusion. The United Nations was founded, and in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted. This landmark document proclaimed that all individuals are entitled to equal rights and freedoms, regardless of their race, sex, language, religion, or any other status. The notion of inclusion became closely intertwined with the principles of human rights and social justice.

1980s

Inclusion in diversity and inclusion efforts

In the 1980s, the term 'inclusion' gained prominence in the context of diversity and inclusion initiatives. It was used to highlight the importance of creating inclusive environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds, including different ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual orientations, could be actively and authentically involved. 'Inclusion' came to be recognized as a crucial element in fostering equality, respect, and acceptance within organizations and society as a whole.

1980s-1990s

Inclusive education movement

During the 1980s and 1990s, the inclusive education movement gained further momentum. The focus shifted from segregating students with disabilities in separate schools or classes to including them in regular classrooms. Inclusion became seen as a more effective and equitable approach to education. The movement aimed to provide support services and resources to facilitate the successful integration of students with a range of abilities into mainstream education environments.

1954

Brown v. Board of Education

In 1954, the Supreme Court of the United States made a significant ruling in the case of Brown v. Board of Education. This ruling declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, thereby taking a crucial step towards inclusive education. The decision set a precedent for dismantling systemic discrimination and promoting equal educational opportunities for all children, regardless of their race.

1990

The Americans with Disabilities Act

In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in the United States. This landmark legislation provided comprehensive protections against discrimination for individuals with disabilities, ensuring their right to equal opportunities in employment, public services, transportation, and more. The ADA further cemented the concept of 'inclusion' by establishing legal frameworks and guidelines for creating inclusive environments and removing barriers to access.

1980s

Inclusion as a social model

In the 1980s, the concept of inclusion gained momentum as a social model for creating inclusive societies. The emphasis shifted from merely integrating marginalized individuals into existing structures to actively restructuring societal norms, practices, and attitudes to ensure equal participation and opportunities for all. This paradigm shift focused on removing barriers and promoting the rights and well-being of marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, and the LGBTQ+ community.

1990

Impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act

The year 1990 marked a watershed moment in the promotion of inclusion with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States. The ADA aimed to eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensure their full participation in all aspects of society. This monumental legislation had a profound impact on the recognition and understanding of inclusion worldwide.

2000

Inclusion in Corporate Diversity

The early 2000s saw the term 'inclusion' extend beyond the realm of civil rights and education, reaching the corporate world. Organizations recognized the importance of fostering diverse and inclusive workplaces to harness the benefits of diverse perspectives and backgrounds. 'Inclusion' became a key component of broader diversity and inclusion initiatives, focusing on creating environments where employees of all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute.

1990

United Nations' emphasis on inclusion

In 1990, the United Nations introduced the World Summit on Social Development, which emphasized 'inclusion' as an integral part of social development policies. The summit aimed to address poverty eradication, social integration, and the overall well-being of all individuals. The concept of 'inclusion' within this context focused on ensuring that all people, including marginalized and vulnerable groups, have equal access to resources, opportunities, and participation in social, economic, and political spheres.

2003

Inclusion in Education

The education sector played a significant role in promoting the term 'inclusion' in 2003. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) issued the Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action on Special Needs Education, emphasizing the importance of inclusive education for all learners. This step recognized that inclusive schools not only benefit students with disabilities but also contribute to the overall development and well-being of all students.

2015

Inclusion in the business world

In 2015, the concept of inclusion gained momentum in the business world. Many companies recognized the value of diverse perspectives and started embracing inclusive practices to foster innovation, creativity, and employee well-being. This shift in mindset led to the implementation of diversity and inclusion initiatives in workplaces worldwide.

1995

UNESCO's Salamanca Statement

In 1994, UNESCO convened a World Conference on Special Needs Education in Salamanca, Spain. The resulting Salamanca Statement, adopted in 1995, endorsed inclusive education as the most effective means of providing quality education for all students. It highlighted the importance of removing barriers to learning and promoting inclusive practices in all educational settings. The statement emphasized the need for schools and educators to adapt and respond to the diverse needs of students.

1945

Disability Rights Movement

The disability rights movement gained momentum in the late 1940s, advocating for equal rights and opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It aimed to challenge societal barriers and promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life. This movement led to the drafting and passing of legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, which has been instrumental in advancing the rights of individuals with disabilities.

2006

Introduction of 'Inclusion' as a Term

The term 'inclusion' began to gain increasing prominence in the early 2000s as a core principle in various fields. It became widely used in education, workplaces, and community development to emphasize the importance of creating inclusive environments that embrace diversity and provide equal opportunities for all. 'Inclusion' became a powerful concept, guiding policies, practices, and conversations to foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

2010s

Mainstream recognition and diversity inclusion

In recent years, the idea of inclusion has reached mainstream consciousness and has expanded beyond the original focus on marginalized groups. The emphasis has shifted to fostering diversity inclusion, which celebrates and values differences in all forms, including but not limited to race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. Inclusion is now seen as a key driver of innovation, creativity, and social cohesion, with businesses and organizations striving to create inclusive environments for their employees and customers.

2000

Inclusion as a corporate strategy

Starting in the early 2000s, inclusion began to gain traction as a crucial component of corporate strategy. Recognizing the benefits of diverse perspectives and experiences, companies began implementing policies and programs to foster inclusive environments within their organizations. This shift helped raise awareness about the importance of inclusion in the business world.

2006

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) was adopted in 2006. It recognized the right to education and called for an inclusive approach to education for persons with disabilities. The convention emphasized the removal of discriminatory practices and the creation of inclusive learning environments. This global commitment further reinforced the importance of inclusion in promoting equal rights and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

2015

Inclusion in Social Justice Movements

In recent years, the term 'inclusion' has found renewed relevance within various social justice movements. It has become increasingly intertwined with broader conversations surrounding equality, diversity, and representation. The call for inclusion acknowledges the need to address systemic inequities and actively involve historically marginalized groups in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected.

2015

Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which included the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals encompass a broad range of objectives, including ending poverty, promoting gender equality, and ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education. The inclusion of 'inclusion' as a core principle within the SDGs reflects the growing awareness of its significance in creating a more just and sustainable world.

21st century

Expanding the scope of inclusion

In the 21st century, the concept of 'inclusion' has continued to evolve and expand. It now encompasses not only individuals with disabilities or diverse backgrounds but also considers different perspectives, experiences, and identities. 'Inclusion' is being increasingly embraced in various fields, including business, education, and social activism, as a means to promote diversity, equality, and positive social change.

2020

Inclusion in the digital age

The digital age brought new opportunities for inclusion. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work and digital platforms, making virtual inclusion a priority for organizations. Efforts were made to ensure accessibility and inclusivity in online spaces, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to connect, collaborate, and participate fully in the digital world.

Present

Continued advocacy and progress

Inclusion continues to be a critical concept for fostering diversity, equality, and social cohesion in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and community participation. Advocacy groups, governments, and individuals worldwide strive to promote inclusive policies, practices, and attitudes. The ongoing efforts aim to build a more inclusive society where individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities can fully participate, contribute, and thrive.

Present

Inclusion in the digital age

In the present-day, inclusion has evolved to encompass digital spaces and technologies. The rise of social media platforms and online communities has provided individuals with new opportunities to connect, share experiences, and promote inclusive conversations. However, while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to ensure equal digital access and representation for all.