What is Inclusion?
EMBRACING DIVERSITY IN OUR COMMUNITIES
RICI is committed to promoting & initiating more inclusion in the Rodney District, NZ - with a focus on the inclusion of people who are marginalised due to physical or mental impairments.
Diversity is a given,
but how we demonstrate inclusion in our communities, is a choice.
This is a learning process for all involved, including for the organization itself. We want to partner with groups across all sectors in our communities - to maximize learning and impact and transcend traditional divides. Please contact us for any queries and feedback, or to support and join us on this important mission.
He waka eke noa
We are all in this together.
KEY PLAYERS IN CREATING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES
Municipalities
- urban and rural
Businesses
- big and small
Institutions
- schools,
health districts,
facilities, etc.
Community-based
Organisations
- culture, sport and
recreation groups,
service organisations,
faith communities, etc.
Inclusion, is appreciating and valuing human differences by removing barriers and creating an atmosphere that promotes a sense of belonging – where everyone feels respected and valued for their uniqueness.
In an inclusive environment, people are valued because of, not in spite of, their differences - so everyone can fully participate and thrive.
NZ legislation in support of Inclusion:
-
Schools are required to be inclusive under the Education and Training Act 2020
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The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCROC) 1989
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The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) 2006
The above laws are reinforced by the New Zealand Disability Strategy.
The NZ Human Rights Commission
The HRC works in partnership with others to help individuals and organisations around New Zealand to understand their rights and meet their legal responsibilities.
Disabled people have the right to be respected for who they are, be free from ableism and discriminatory barriers, and participate fully in all aspects of society.