Learning and Unlearning: Fostering Change in the Developmental Services Sector
The developmental services sector plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families. However, in our pursuit of creating inclusive and accessible environments, it's imperative that we acknowledge the need for continuous learning and unlearning. In this article, we explore the importance of ongoing education, self-reflection, and active listening in the journey towards a more equitable and inclusive sector.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training
One of the foundational steps in fostering change within the developmental services sector is the implementation of ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These programs provide valuable insights into recognizing unconscious biases, addressing systemic inequalities, and creating more inclusive environments. It is crucial to understand that DEI training is not a one-time event but an ongoing commitment to challenging and unlearning deeply ingrained beliefs and practices. Equally important, is understanding that it can take many forms.
Challenging Preconceived Notions
As individuals working in the developmental services sector, we also carry preconceived notions about differences among people – because we live in an ableist, racist, homophobic, Islamophobic society plagued with all the isms. These beliefs are reinforced by media, societal stereotypes, and confirmation bias in our personal experiences. It is essential to actively challenge and unlearn these biases. One powerful way to do so is by exposing ourselves to diverse perspectives and questioning the narratives we have been exposed to since birth. Naturally, this can be difficult as it requires one to be open to not only being wrong, but to having an inaccurate understanding of many things.
Expanding Horizons Through Literature and Media
Reading books, watching documentaries, and engaging with various forms of media can expand our horizons and offer different perspectives. It's essential to seek out materials authored by individuals from backgrounds different from our own. These resources provide valuable insights into the experiences and challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Embracing Free Resources
In today's digital age, there is a wealth of free resources available to aid in our learning and unlearning journey. TEDx talks, YouTube videos, TikToks, movies, and podcasts offer a multitude of perspectives and insights. These resources can be invaluable tools in our efforts to gain a deeper understanding of issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Centering Listening and Empathy
Perhaps one of the most critical aspects of fostering change is centering listening and empathy. When individuals from marginalized communities share their experiences, it is essential to listen with the intent to understand, not just to respond. Recognize the emotional labor that often accompanies these conversations and strive to create safe spaces where people feel heard and valued.
Avoiding Gaslighting
Gaslighting is a harmful practice where individuals dismiss or invalidate the experiences of others. In the context of the developmental services sector, it's essential to avoid gaslighting and to acknowledge that different perspectives and experiences are valid. Just because something challenges our existing beliefs does not make it any less true.
The developmental services sector has the power to effect positive change in the lives of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, their families, their communities and the lives of those who support them. To do so effectively, we must engage in continuous learning and unlearning. By embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion training, challenging preconceived notions, exploring diverse perspectives, and practicing active listening, we can create more inclusive and supportive environments. It is through these collective efforts that we can foster lasting change and empower all individuals to thrive.
