User blog comment:Sannse/The Diversity of FANDOM/@comment-35067842-20180321173422

First, let me thank you for bringing this topic up for discussion and openly supporting diversity. I love how you express such strong reasons why cultural communication differences can further complicate an already challenging form of communication: text. Without intonation of voice and facial expressions, communication is just more challenging for everyone involved.

Second, I am assuming good faith in reading your content. Likewise, I hope you will receive my comments in good faith. This information I am sharing can be helpful for anyone reading this as well people who want to be a bit more inclusive.

People with disabilities are usually viewed through an "ableist" lens, meaning people without disabilities assume people with disabilities are less than and are surprised when people with disabilities do something. This is societally taught. If we don't challenge these thoughts and actions when they occur, we won't progress as inclusive individuals. We need to reflect on our actions and the situations. When someone calls us out on something, thank them for that and reflect. Being called out is a kind gesture. It might not feel like it, but it is because the person wants you to know they were hurt by something you said or did, or wants to keep you from hurting others. Being inclusive isn't a trophy or award you'll win - it's a process that is on-going.

Other points I need to make have been said by others, so I won't repeat them.

Diversity, inclusion, and bias are not just a community problems here. This happens everywhere. Why? Because society is complicated. I work with organizations and groups hoping to be more inclusive and more aware of accessibility and bias. I'd be glad to continue this conversation further with anyone who would like. Best, Jackie K.