While there are many things that can be done to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, the following are steps in the right direction:
1. Begin activities to build awareness
- Build relationships with people who live with disabilities and include them in planning and implementation
- Write an article, post, or Op-ed on the importance of inclusion of people with disabilities
- Create a public service announcement on disability and inclusion
2. Devote a session to talk about disability and inclusion
- Highlight what Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Hinduism say in regard to people with disabilities
- Talk about the contributions made by people with disabilities
3. Disability Etiquette
- Get educated about the dos and don’ts of interacting with people with disabilities
- Conduct seminars and workshops to promote sensitivity and awareness
- Conduct an accessible audit to make your house of worship more accessible
- Make simple modifications to make them more accessible and inclusive
5. Learn from other houses of worship
- Visit and conduct surveys with other houses of worship
- Create lessons learned; adapt their best practices to your own situation
