Accessibility and inclusion are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. While accessibility is an important component of inclusion, it is only one part of the equation.
Accessibility refers to the removal of barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing something. This can include physical barriers like steps or narrow doorways or digital barriers like websites that are not optimized for screen readers. When something is accessible, it means that people with disabilities can use it without facing unnecessary obstacles.
Inclusion, on the other hand, goes beyond just accessibility. Inclusion is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their differences. This means going beyond just removing barriers and actively working to create a sense of belonging for all individuals.
For example, a school may have an accessible entrance for students with physical disabilities, but that does not necessarily mean that those students feel included in the school community. Inclusion would involve creating a culture of acceptance and understanding where students with disabilities are fully integrated into the school community.
While accessibility is an important step towards inclusion, it is only one part of the puzzle. In order to create a truly inclusive society, we must work towards removing all barriers and creating a culture of acceptance and understanding for everyone.