WORK IN PROGRESS: An Inclusive Cultures Blog
We define change as the act or means in which something becomes different, and learning as a process which leads to change. As a Curator of creative learning programmes, working in galleries and museums, much of what I do is about creating frameworks and tools that enable or initiate change in others or begin a journey towards change. I came into Inclusive Cultures open to change in myself but unsure of what that might look like. Naively I thought the learning curve might be a bit more straight forward, easy to explain, and to apply.
Now on the other side, I realise the most powerful impacts are in my understanding of the potential we all hold to create real change in our communities, and wider society. I have new confidence in my awareness of ableism and disablism; my comfort zone has got a little bigger from the stretch; and I feel better prepared to actively contribute to the quiet (and sometimes loud) labour of rebuilding and reinventing the structures within which we live and work, which have historically excluded many.
Here I share some ‘notes to self’, as a kind of personal manifesto for my continued journey towards this change…
We are all leaders
‘Leadership’ is in all of us, in how we choose to behave and demonstrate our values every day. This was evident in how the Inclusive Cultures coaches approached our cohort and created a space for everyone to take the lead in their own learning. Within institutions this word is often used to reference a very small group of people who have a large amount of responsibility. Let’s change our understanding of who can ‘lead’ and support everyone in our communities to be inclusive leaders.
We learn to listen when we’re listening
Listening is a practice – make time and space to practice. The coaching conversations within Inclusive Cultures have been a valuable example of this. Listening is a powerful tool in being inclusive, enabling understanding of what people need, enjoy, and find challenging. Consider whose voices aren’t being heard and find ways to hear them.
Pay it forward
Change doesn’t always happen at the speed we’d like. It can be part of a life’s work, or several life’s work. It is energising to know the whole cohort are out there somewhere contributing to this change. Find ways to be patient and to value the impacts being made. Being present in the now will make a difference in what comes next, focus on making the most of my contribution. Ask difficult questions.
Put people first
Consider the people who have the greatest needs first and things will get better for everyone. Show kindness, empathy, care. Build trust. Don’t be afraid to do things differently.
Evidence is lived and living
Remember ‘lived’ experience is often ‘living’ experience. There is a labour that comes with this experience – ask how I can help carry the load. Listen, learn, collaborate. Be an ally and an accomplice. Don’t expect to know everything.
Be myself
Gain confidence in owning my own experiences. Use my privileges to enable change. Remember learning (and change) can only happen when we push beyond the comfort zone. Don’t forget to be playful and curious.
This is an ongoing process
Pause. Breathe. Look after yourself so you have the energy for this work.
