Inclusion is ... / inclusion is not...: the lived experience for people with disabilities
Josey McMahon
Queenslanders with Disability Network
Contact Email:   qdnqdn.org.au

This paper will critique and discuss the theme of social inclusion for people with disabilities. It will explore what social inclusion is, how it is experienced (or not) by people with disabilities and some of the circumstances and supports required to make society more inclusive and welcoming.

The paper will include personal stories from people with disabilities to give participants powerful insights into how movements for social change, policies, practices impact on people’s lives. It will critique social inclusion from a historical perspective – looking at the origins of de-institutionalisation – provide a reminder of the original impetus for change that put social inclusion for people with disabilities on the agenda.

Part of this review will include a discussion of policies and practices that empower people with disabilities, and a look at some practical ways to facilitate social inclusion. The paper will also critique legislation, funding strategies, policies, practices and service models that progress and support societies to be inclusive of people with disabilities.

The paper will be followed by a brief panel discussion which critiques emerging practices and explores the positive or negative these have on social inclusion. This discussion will develop key suggestions on what social inclusion is, what it is not, and how communities can be more inclusive of people with disabilities.

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