Action Steps for Inclusion

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

4. Accessibility Audits

• 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