Educating others on the lived experiences of youth who have an intellectual disability will give community members a greater capacity to identify the impact of these experiences for youth with and without a disability. By raising the consciousness of others, we create spaces that are fueled by collaboration so that we can begin to shift the culture of our society and change the narrative on disability. 

Being authentic with others requires that we identify each other’s gifts and foster relationships based on a genuine interest in one another. Authentic inclusion requires that we assume that each and every one of us has the competence to contribute to the communities in which we live. In doing so, communities become grounded in a culture that provides equitable and equal access for people who have an intellectual disability. 

Refusing to accept the status quo allows us to envision a future where people are empowered to live the life they dream for themselves. Youth are the here and now and they have the ability to challenge limiting attitudes of the past and have the potential to ignite the momentum that will make a difference for the future. 

By thinking critically about the way we perceive others, we can be mindful of the biases that are present in the mindsets of others and of ourselves. When we are attentive to these influences, we can work to make meaningful decisions and act with a greater awareness of the potential consequences of the choices we make.