By: Aaron Devries
As a father, one of the greatest hopes I have for my daughter is that she feels loved, valued, and included in this world. But as the father of a daughter with a disability, I’ve come to realize that inclusion is not just a hope — it’s an urgent necessity. It’s not a buzzword or a nice-to-have ideal; it’s a lifeline that can change everything for children like mine and for the communities that surround them.
From the moment we understood the nature of her disability, I entered a world I wasn’t prepared for. It’s a world filled with appointments, therapies, and adaptive tools, but also with barriers that most people don’t even notice. The more time I spend in this world, the more I understand that inclusion is not simply about physical accessibility or legal rights — it’s about the full integration of people with disabilities into every aspect of life, where they’re truly seen and embraced as equal participants.
Why Inclusion Matters
For my daughter, inclusion is the difference between feeling invisible and being celebrated. When she is included, she is empowered. She knows she belongs. Whether it’s in her classroom, on the playground, or at community events, being included means the world to her. It means she can be a part of something, not despite her disability, but fully alongside her peers.
But inclusion doesn’t only benefit her; it transforms those around her. Kids who grow up with children like my daughter learn early that the world is a diverse place. They learn that differences don’t make anyone less valuable, and that empathy and kindness matter. These are lifelong lessons that shape a more compassionate and understanding society. Inclusion isn’t about doing a favor for people with disabilities; it’s about creating communities where everyone can thrive and contribute.
The Cost of Exclusion
The cost of exclusion is heartbreaking. I’ve seen my daughter left out of birthday parties, overlooked in group activities, and unable to participate in games because there weren’t accommodations for her needs. When society excludes children like my daughter, it’s not just them who suffer — we all do. We lose out on the perspectives, talents, and contributions they bring to the table. And for my daughter, exclusion can feel like the world is saying she doesn’t belong.
I know firsthand that when my daughter is given the opportunity to participate, she lights up. She brings joy, resilience, and a unique way of seeing the world that enriches everyone around her. Exclusion robs everyone of that experience. It limits her potential, and it stifles the growth of her peers who miss out on learning from someone who navigates life differently.
Inclusion Can’t Wait
Inclusion is something we must actively pursue now — not later. Schools need to be inclusive, designing curricula and environments that support every student’s success, regardless of ability. Communities need to make sure events, programs, and spaces are welcoming and accessible for all. Workplaces need to reflect the diversity of the world we live in and ensure that people with disabilities are not just accommodated but embraced.
As a dad, I’m committed to advocating for these changes because I’ve seen the impact exclusion has, and I know how powerful inclusion can be. I’ve watched my daughter’s confidence soar when she’s treated like any other child — because she is just like any other child, with hopes, dreams, and so much to offer the world.
But I can’t do it alone. None of us can. It takes all of us working together to create a society where inclusion isn’t the exception but the norm. It means challenging outdated perceptions, building accessible spaces, and ensuring that children like my daughter aren’t left out of life’s opportunities.
So I’m asking you to join me in this effort. Advocate for inclusion in your community, your workplace, and your schools. When you meet someone who has a disability, don’t see what they can’t do; see all they can bring to the table. Help create a world where everyone belongs, where no one is left on the sidelines because they’re different. Inclusion isn’t just important. It’s essential. And it’s time for us to act.
