World Inclusion Day Date in the current year: October 10, 2024

We are living in a diverse world where different cultural norms and perspectives exist. Some societies are more homogeneous than others, but regardless of where you live, you will inevitably encounter people who are different from you, and you need to learn to respect these differences if you want to live in a kind and compassionate society.

Some say that we should focus on the things we have in common rather than on the things that make us different. While this is true to some extent, it is our differences that make us unique. Differences are not something to be ignored or erased; they are something to be respected and celebrated.

This is where inclusion comes into play. Although the word “inclusion” is primarily associated with disability rights and education, it has a much wider meaning. Inclusion is about accepting and celebrating differences of backgrounds, cultures, religions, genders, sexes, sexual orientations, experiences, and perspectives.

Every person has the right to feel valued and appreciated for who they are, and inclusion is the best way to show this appreciation. Inclusion allows people of all backgrounds and abilities to thrive and live their lives to the fullest, making our world a much better place. However, it is important to keep in mind that inclusion is not something we can achieve without committing to becoming more accepting and open-minded.

World Inclusion Day was founded in 2020 by the Garden Foundation, a Las Vegas-based non-profit organization that supports people with disabilities and offers unique programs to enhance their lives, helping each person it serves to reach their full potential. The main goal of the holiday is to encourage everyone to become a part of a kinder and more inclusive world.

There are many ways to get involved with World Inclusion Day. You can donate to, volunteer at or organize a fundraiser for a charity that supports inclusion, buy World Inclusion Day merchandise to support the Garden Foundation and its programs, and spread awareness on social media with the hashtags #ChooseToInclude and #WorldInclusionDay.

World Inclusion Day is also a great occasion to learn more about other cultures, appreciate the diversity that makes our world so wonderful, and make friends from different backgrounds, as well as to commit to being kinder to others and more open-minded and take the first steps toward building a more inclusive world.

You can show inclusion by supporting a minority-owned or diverse business, standing up for someone who struggles with advocating for themselves and needs your help, practicing small acts of kindness, and giving a platform to underrepresented groups if you have the power to do so. And don’t forget that inclusion must not be limited to just one day a year: let’s make every day a World Inclusion Day!