Building equality, justice, inclusion

As we near the 4th of July, it is important to celebrate the progress we have made collectively and individually so that we can continually make the needed changes to make this a better nation. America is a place that strives for equality, justice and inclusion. Living these values takes constant hard work and action.

Today policies and agencies are working together to give people the "least restrictive environments" so that individuals with disabilities have more control over their own life and can fully participate in society. As people have had more exposure with people with disabilities, they have become more welcoming and generous.

This is evident as the derogatory terms "retarded" and "crazy" are increasingly considered socially unacceptable and as public places are designed to be accessible for people with all abilities, such as motion-sensored doors and sidewalk ramps. Continuing efforts to create equity to all groups and types of people is imperative to the United States's well-being.

Nelson Mandela, the South African revolutionary, once said, "A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but its lowest ones."

As the anticipation of parades, barbecues and fireworks draws nearer, let us remember the strides we have made in creating a more equal, just and inclusive society. Let this remembrance invoke a sense of empowerment to make even greater efforts to treat all people with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Amy Bunting

Logan