To Speak Up for Inclusion, we need to speak about inclusion

Summary

The video script explores the complexities of navigating societal expectations and prejudices as an indigenous person, a woman, and a person with a disability. It emphasizes the importance of challenging personal biases and assumptions, advocating for a more inclusive society where barriers are torn down and everyone feels welcomed and respected. The speakers share personal experiences of overcoming stereotypes and discrimination, highlighting the need for open dialogue and active listening to foster understanding and drive inclusion.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Stereotypes and assumptions are often made about individuals based on their race, gender, or disability.
• 💼 Workplaces can be challenging environments for those who don't conform to traditional expectations or roles.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The speaker acknowledges their own biases and the importance of recognizing and overcoming them.
• 🏢 Inclusive environments should be free of constructed barriers, allowing everyone to feel welcomed and respected.
• 🌟 Change is possible, but it requires the right individuals to initiate and drive it forward.
• 👗 Support and advocacy from allies can be crucial in promoting inclusion, as demonstrated by the shop floor supervisor's actions.
• 🗣️ Open communication and conversation about inclusion are essential for fostering understanding and acceptance.
• 🌱 Learning about different cultures, races, religions, and belief systems is a key part of embracing diversity and inclusion.
• 👂 Active listening and showing genuine interest in others' experiences can help break down barriers and promote inclusivity.
• 🤔 Asking questions, even if they seem 'stupid,' is encouraged as a way to learn and grow, rather than being seen as a negative.
• 🌈 The speaker envisions a future where acceptance is the norm and people are free to be themselves without judgment.

Q & A

What is the speaker's perspective on being labeled as a 'terrorist'?

The speaker expresses discomfort and resentment towards being labeled as a 'terrorist', highlighting the negative stereotypes and assumptions that are often unfairly associated with being an indigenous person.

How does the speaker describe the initial assumptions made about them due to their indigenous background?

The speaker mentions that people often assumed they could be a drunk or have substance abuse issues, or that they might be knowledgeable about computers, based solely on their indigenous identity.

What kind of stereotypes does the speaker mention about women in the workplace?

The speaker talks about the stereotype that women are expected to behave in a certain way, such as being told they will soon be off having their next baby, which implies a bias against women's professional capabilities.

How does the speaker address the issue of generational stereotypes?

The speaker notes that their generation is often labeled as lazy, which is a stereotype that overlooks the individual efforts and achievements of young people.

What assumptions did the speaker initially have about a girl wanting to be a camera operator?

The speaker admits that they initially thought there was something weird about a girl wanting to be a camera operator, influenced by the traditional term 'cameraman', which is gendered.

How does the speaker feel about their initial judgments of people wearing hijabs?

The speaker acknowledges feeling intimidated by little girls wearing hijabs on their first day at school, but also emphasizes the importance of being willing to learn and overcome initial judgments.

What is the speaker's definition of inclusion?

Inclusion, for the speaker, is a society where constructed barriers are torn down, and everyone feels welcomed and respected regardless of their diversity. It involves creating an environment where all individuals are comfortable and open to accepting others' opinions.

What role does the speaker believe allies play in promoting inclusion?

The speaker shares an experience where a shop floor supervisor stood up for them, demonstrating that allies can play a crucial role in supporting inclusion by taking action and advocating for others.

How can individuals support inclusion according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that individuals can support inclusion by talking about it, demonstrating commitment, getting to know people around them, and learning about different cultures, races, religions, and belief systems.

What advice does the speaker give for engaging in conversations about inclusion?

The speaker encourages asking questions, even if they seem 'stupid', as this is seen as a teachable moment. They emphasize the importance of being an active listener and showing interest in others' experiences.

What does the speaker envision for a future of acceptance and inclusion?

The speaker envisions a day when people are so accepting of each other that they can make space for others, indicating a future where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is a natural part of society.