Inclusion: “what does it mean anymore, anyway?”

Abstract

Recently, I have come across different people in the disability, community and education sectors discussing how the concept of ‘inclusion’ has lost its meaning for a number of reasons ranging from inaccurate representations to its overuse. This suggests to me the need to delve deeper and learn more about social exclusion and its impacts, and the value of inclusive environments and practices as encapsulated by different peoples in different contexts. It is therefore timely that a number of the papers published in this edition of the journal demonstrate the importance of social inclusion in the disability, community and education sectors. In keeping with objectives to promote inclusive practices, this edition canvasses a range of issues, research methods, settings and perspectives within Australian and international contexts. These include studies from lower middle income countries such as Ghana and India and as well as research with diverse issues and peoples within Australia, a high income country. Upfront, it is acknowledged that in some cases the experiences detailed are excruciating to read. Nevertheless, the insights that are provided are powerful and further demonstrate the need for and value of inclusive approaches, interventions and programs in order to improve outcomes for individuals and the wider community.