Persons with Disabilities (PWD) or Persons With Different Abilities (PWDA) ?.... Reframing DEI
The 3rd of December ?is celebrated as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).?
On this day, I am proposing that we change the lens of looking at Persons With Disabilities (PWD) to ALL of us being Persons With Different Abilities (PWDA). Here is why I am saying this:
?When you look at life as a whole, you see so much diversity. One look at the picture below will give you a feel of what I mean.
?All of us are unique, just like our fingerprints. We are all blessed with ?DIFFERENT abilities.
Greatness Comes in Different Forms
The science of Neurodiversity recognizes and celebrates the diversity of human neurological differences. It suggests that neurological variations, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, should be seen as natural variations of the human genome rather than as disorders that need to be cured or fixed. The compassion of a child with Down syndrome and the healing gifts of someone on the autism spectrum highlight their unique abilities.
Beethoven, the deaf composer; Helen Keller, the blind author and activist; Andrea Bocelli the blind tenor, musician, writer, and musical producer( whose angelic singing brought Roger Federer to tears recently), all prove that unique abilities can yield greatness. Dyslexia didn't stop Richard Branson or Steve Jobs from becoming entrepreneurial legends. In India, we have legends like Sheetal Devi, the armless archer who brought home gold medals in archery for India, the legendary Sudha Chandran who dances beautifully with a prosthetic leg, Arunima Sinha who climbed Mount Everest even after one of her legs was amputated, and Girish Sharman who plays international level Badminton on just one leg!
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What Leaders Can Do
So what can leaders in Organisations do to foster a culture of true inclusion where ALL are seen as ?People With Different Abilities (PWDA)
1)????? Start by seeing all Persons? as PWDA (Persons With Different Abilities):
Recognize and appreciate the unique abilities and talents of every individual, regardless of their background, experiences, or neurodiversity.
2)????? Focus on How Smart People Are, Not How They Are Smart:
Assess intelligence in diverse ways and recognize that there are multiple forms of intelligence. Look for the strengths and capabilities each person brings to the team.
3)????? Celebrate Neurodiversity and Differences: Embrace the concept of neurodiversity, understanding that it enriches your team with unique perspectives and talents. Celebrate differences as strengths, not weaknesses.
4)????? Value the Diversity of Cultures, Races, and Backgrounds: Acknowledge the contribution of different cultures, races, and backgrounds to the workplace. See this diversity as an essential part of the tapestry of your organization.
5)????? Leverage Superpowers and Strong Abilities: Encourage the reassignment of work based on individuals' "superpowers" and strengths. Identify what makes each team member exceptional and harness their unique abilities to benefit the organization.
By following these simple tips, leaders can create an inclusive and empowering work environment that maximizes the potential of every team member, regardless of their background or abilities.
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Developmental Psychologist ,Queer Affirmative, Dance Movement Therapist
2 个月namaskar sir, your each n every word has always been enlightenment towards life.........
Retd. Global CEO | Certified Leadership Coach | Startup Mentor | Independent Director | Wellness Teacher for over 20 Years
11 个月Two comments: -A book by Paul Coelho describes a situation where a -normal' person who walks into an institute where there only people with disabilities. In that place who is the odd one?! What lens are you wearing! -If you believe in life after life - there is a theory which says that people with ' disabilities- have contracted to be born in the world for us to learn about selfless caring etc. That actually makes them more evolved souls.
Building Equitable Futures & Sustainable Society - for PwDs, Tribals & Rural Women Farmers | Team Beacon- DEI Experts | TEDx, National & Global Awardee, Fun-Mom.
11 个月Thank you Sir Arun Wakhlu Truly humbled. Your love is a constant in our lives. ?? Diverse Different Special We all are all the above, aren't we?! :) Together, let’s work on the inequities to make this world a better place!!! #dei #terrasinne #drsonamkapse #newdeitraining #changingtrends #changingindia
Country Group H.R.Head - South Asia at Bayer Group
11 个月Fully support your view! We call them People with Diverse Abilities!