Inclusion

As a long-time educator of students with special needs, I am well aware of what inclusion means in the educational world.  It is to be included, to the highest degree possible, into the mainstream of education.  Public education has come a long way in this regard, compared to when I was a neophyte teacher 40 years ago.  Has the world outside of formal education kept pace?

Since the Individuals with Diasabilities Act (IDEA), the face of education has changed.  In like manner the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has changed the world we live in.  Public buildings and restrooms must be accessible to those with handicaps, for instance.  But has it really changed daily living challenges for those with differences?  To a degree, yes.

Something caught my eye recently that I feel obligated to share.  The JC Penney company has just earned my business forever.  I will now go out of my way to shop there.  A local JC Penney has announced that it is hosting a special shopping event for those with autism.  The shopping environment will have adapted lighting and sound.  There will be staff educated about autism on hand to assist in any way necessary.  Frankly, I'm tickled pink.

Most people have no idea of what being a caretaker to someone with autism entails.  It is a a 24-hour, 365-days-a-year job.  There are no half-hour lunch breaks, no 15 minute work breaks.  There is no sigh of relief when the weekend comes.  A night out is rare, as few are willing to sit with someone with autism.  

To know that a company is willing to make unrequired accommodations for a segment of society that is most often overlooked or misunderstood is wonderful news.  To learn more, go to inclusion@jcp.com