Inclusivity is the way forward, and to truly embrace it, there are some outdated practices we need to let go of.

These practices, often deeply ingrained in our societies, can create barriers and exclude certain groups from fully participating in various aspects of life.

I’m here to help you identify these practices and say goodbye to them, for a more inclusive world.

Let’s dive into it, shall we? In this article, I’ll walk you through the outdated practices that are holding us back from achieving true inclusivity.

1) One-size-fits-all approach

In the journey towards inclusivity, it’s important to understand and acknowledge that not everyone has the same experiences or needs.

This is why the outdated practice of a one-size-fits-all approach can be detrimental to inclusivity.

Historically, many systems and structures have been built based on the experiences and needs of a dominant group, often overlooking the unique needs of others.

The problem with this approach is that it leaves many people out, creating barriers to participation.

Let’s take education for example. A one-size-fits-all approach to teaching not only fails to meet the diverse learning needs of students, but it can also perpetuate systemic inequities.

So, if we want to build more inclusive spaces, we need to say goodbye to this practice.

We need to start acknowledging and accommodating diverse needs and experiences. And that means being open to changing the way we do things.

Remember, inclusivity is about ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to participate fully in various aspects of life. And that starts with acknowledging our differences, not ignoring them.

2) Stereotyping

Ah, stereotypes. We’ve all encountered them, haven’t we? They’re those broad brush strokes that paint everyone from a certain group with the same colors.

I remember a time when I was younger and fresh in my career. I was the only woman in a predominantly male team. More often than I’d like to admit, I found myself fighting against stereotypes – that women are emotional, not as analytical, or can’t handle pressure as well.

This stereotyping not only limited my growth but also created an environment where my ideas and contributions were minimized.

Stereotypes are harmful. They create a narrow view of people based on their gender, race, religion, or other characteristics, inhibiting individuals from expressing their true selves.

It’s time to say goodbye to stereotyping if we really want to foster inclusivity. We need to see people for who they are – unique individuals with their own skills and experiences – rather than seeing them as representatives of a certain group.

Inclusivity is about acknowledging individuality and celebrating diversity. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for who they are.

3) Ignoring intersectionality

Intersectionality is a concept that describes how various forms of discrimination can overlap and interact. For example, a woman of color might face discrimination that’s different from what a white woman or a man of color experiences.

Unbelievably, the term was only coined in 1989 by Kimberlé Crenshaw, a civil rights advocate and leading scholar of critical race theory. Despite its relatively recent introduction, intersectionality has been instrumental in highlighting the complex nature of discrimination and inequity.

Ignoring intersectionality is an outdated practice that we need to bid farewell to in our pursuit of inclusivity. It’s not just about recognizing individual forms of discrimination, but understanding how they can intersect and create unique experiences of disadvantage.

By recognizing and addressing intersectionality, we can develop more nuanced solutions that cater to the needs of all individuals, rather than just focusing on singular aspects of their identity. Only then can we truly foster an inclusive environment.

4) Lack of representation

If you look around your office, classroom, or even your favourite TV show, what do you see? Is there a variety of genders, races, ages, and abilities represented?

Sadly, in many cases, the answer is no. There’s often a severe lack of representation, especially when it comes to leadership roles or influential positions.

Lack of representation can lead to feelings of exclusion and invisibility for those who don’t see themselves represented. It can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and biases.

For true inclusivity, it’s important that everyone has a voice and a seat at the table. We need diverse perspectives to challenge our thinking, drive innovation and create environments where everyone feels they belong.

So let’s challenge the status quo and strive for better representation in all aspects of life. Because everyone deserves to be seen and heard.

5) Inaccessible spaces

Ever tried navigating a building with a stroller or a wheelchair? Or perhaps tried to read a document with small font size? If you have, you’d know that the world isn’t built for everyone.

Accessibility is often an afterthought, leading to spaces and information that are not accessible to everyone. This can exclude people with disabilities, older people, or anyone with temporary impairments from fully participating in society.

Inclusivity means ensuring that everyone can access and participate in all aspects of life. This includes physical spaces, digital platforms, and information.

So let’s rethink our spaces and ensure they are designed with everyone in mind. Because inclusivity starts when everyone can access the same opportunities. Let’s say goodbye to inaccessible spaces and hello to a more inclusive world.

6) Unconscious bias

We all have them – those hidden, unconscious biases that influence our decisions and actions, often without us even realizing it.

These biases can be based on anything from a person’s race, gender, age, or physical appearance to their accent or social status. They’re like invisible barriers that prevent us from seeing the full potential of those around us.

I can’t help but think about all the incredible talent that goes unnoticed and opportunities missed simply because of these hidden biases. It’s heartbreaking.

Saying goodbye to unconscious bias isn’t easy. It requires self-awareness and a commitment to challenge our own perceptions. But it’s a crucial step towards inclusivity.

Because everyone deserves to be seen for who they truly are, without bias. And everyone deserves an equal chance to shine. So let’s face our unconscious biases, challenge them, and open our hearts to the beauty of diversity around us.

7) Misuse of labels

Labels can be helpful. They can help us to categorize, understand, and communicate. But when used carelessly, they can also box people in, limit their potential, and create divisions.

I was labeled as ‘shy’ growing up. This label stuck with me and influenced how people interacted with me and how I viewed myself. It wasn’t until much later in life that I realized I’m not shy, just introverted. I enjoy solitude and deep conversations over small talk.

Misusing labels or assigning them without a person’s consent can lead to misunderstandings and reinforce harmful stereotypes. It’s another practice that needs to go if we want to foster inclusivity.

Let’s strive to see beyond labels and appreciate the complexity and uniqueness of each individual. After all, we are all more than just a single label.

8) Exclusive language

Language is a powerful tool. It shapes our understanding of the world and influences how we interact with others. But language can also exclude and marginalize.

Exclusive language may include gender-biased terms, racial slurs, or phrases that marginalize certain groups. Even seemingly innocent phrases like “you guys” or “mankind” can subtly reinforce the notion that men are the default.

It’s time to reconsider our language choices. By using inclusive language, we can create a sense of belonging and respect for all individuals.

So let’s make an effort to use language that includes everyone. Because every word matters when it comes to fostering inclusivity.

9) Ignoring the need for systemic change

Inclusivity is more than just a buzzword or a box to tick. It’s about systemic change. It’s about challenging the power structures, norms, and practices that have historically excluded certain groups.

Without systemic change, any attempts at inclusivity are likely to be superficial and short-lived. We can’t just treat the symptoms. We need to address the root causes of exclusion and inequality.

So if we’re serious about inclusivity, we need to advocate for systemic change. We need to question, challenge, and transform the systems that perpetuate exclusion.

And remember, change starts with us. Each and every one of us has a role to play in fostering inclusivity. So let’s rise to the challenge and create a world where everyone truly belongs.

Final reflection: Inclusivity as a journey

The quest for inclusivity is a journey, not a destination. It’s an ongoing process of learning, unlearning, and relearning.

It’s about challenging our biases, confronting uncomfortable truths, and daring to disrupt the status quo. It’s about seeking to understand and appreciate the rich tapestry of human diversity.

In the words of Verna Myers, a renowned inclusion strategist, “Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.” But I would add that true inclusivity is about ensuring everyone has a say in the music.

As we navigate this journey towards inclusivity, let us remember that every step counts. Every time we challenge an outdated practice, every time we make space for voices that have been marginalized, and every time we choose to see people for who they truly are, we move closer to a more inclusive world.

And isn’t that a world worth striving for?