International Women’s Day 2024: Thoughts for inspiring inclusion

As we mark International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements women have made so far, but it is also an opportunity to open a discussion on the journey to equality. Here, the team at CT share their views on what an equal world looks like to them, and five ways we can inspire inclusion in our day-to-day lives.

Envisaging an equal world

In visualising an equitable world, we share our thoughts on what an equal world would look like:

1. Inclusive participation – where everyone can participate in their chosen pursuits, tailored to their abilities and their voices are heard, irrespective of their gender, race, age, or any other category.
2. Opportunities for all – a world where opportunities, resources, education and encouragement are accessible to all to maximise their true potential.
3. We all have a voice – a world where everyone’s voice matters and there is an opportunity for diverse perspectives to be heard.
4. Valuing differences – celebrating our differences and embracing the idea that every person’s uniqueness contributes to the richness of our collective experience.
5. Authenticity and education – encouraging people to be their authentic selves, fostering quality education, and allowing individuals to set aspirations for themselves based on personal goals rather than what society says they should expect to achieve.

Five steps we can take each day to inspire inclusion

In championing a more inclusive world, we have considered five steps that can be incorporated into our daily lives:

1. Curiosity and open-mindedness – rather than dismissing views outright, ask questions and explore different perspectives, even if it may feel uncomfortable at times.
2. Amplifying unheard voices – be aware of times when someone may be silenced during discussions. Use your position and voice to leverage their voice into focus, redirect discussions and call out any actions which foster silencing.
3. Language and space– create a safe space for discussing inclusion without judgements.
4. Mindful communication – sometimes taking a moment to reflect on our words and actions can be a cure for unintentional harm or misunderstanding and can promote inclusive dialogue.
5. Unmasking biases – self-awareness is key – reflect on any stereotypes or assumptions; by facing these biases, we create a space for growth and change.

What more can we all do to inspire inclusion?

Read more from Campbell Tickell on inclusion

• Navigating gendered language: Tracey McEachran, President, WISH (Women in Social Housing network), and Senior Associate, Campbell Tickell discusses the Hear Her Voice campaign.
• See my colour, see me: Stella Leaburn, Associate Consultant at Campbell Tickell, discusses daily racism that we should be aware of every day of the year, both inside and outside the workplace.
• Mainstreaming the marginalised: Catherine Romney, Policy & Research Officer discusses how standpoint feminist theory can help housing providers achieve greater equality, diversity and inclusion in their policies and practice.

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