Diversity is our power
Our unity is our strength, and our diversity is our power. We reject the myth of ‘us’ vs ‘them’. We are in this together (Kamala Harris)
Do we really value and celebrate diversity? Do we take action to support inclusion and belonging? Sometimes I look around me and fail to see the evidence. I have spent my career, and spare time, working to protect the native biodiversity of Aotearoa, yet today only two people turned up to a working bee to protect our local forest reserve. I recently completed Neuro-diversity training at work to become a better manager but it is difficult to put into practice when annual plan targets are about the numbers. I had hoped Rory would find part -time work but there are few businesses willing to take him on, even as a volunteer, and he is accompanied by a Support Carer. At times I feel angry and frustrated. We are poorer without kiwi, without staff with ADHD, without people like Rory contributing to the mahi. We must be better and do more. We must be courageous and empathetic to ensure no one is left out. Inclusion elevates us all.
This week Rory attended a lunch with Community Connections. They facilitated a workshop in the morning for Taranaki employers to increase their confidence in employing people with disabilities and health based barriers. The lunch provided an opportunity for people experiencing barriers to meet with prospective employers. On Monday afternoon Rory and Caleb had bloke time, a quick dip at the beach followed by a soak in the spa pool and play with Daisy dog. Colt joined Tash and Rory for Doggy Day Care on Wednesday and loved being smothered by the dogs. He reckons their Wednesday afternoons are a lot better than school. On Friday Rory had his first session with new Psychologist Daniel. It seemed to go well and will be scheduled for once per month. I have been monitoring a lesion on Rory’s inner upper arm. Our GP has looked at it but I have some concerns so I am trying to book Rory a dermatologist appointment. Given what Rory has experienced it pays to be cautious. Today Sean and Rory dodged the wet weather with a town walk in New Plymouth while Colt and I stretched our legs along the South Taranaki coast walking from Ohawe to Waihi beach.