The Inclusion Challenge

We explore the fundamental human need for inclusion and the deep-seated emotions surrounding it. Despite our intrinsic desire to belong, history shows us that exclusion has become a powerful, often divisive, societal force. Through personal stories and thought-provoking discussions, we delve into why exclusion persists, the power dynamics at play, and the profound impact on our collective psyche.

Watch the Episode 1 teaser video to the right.

This episode examines the historical roots of these divisions and the ways they are maintained through laws, policies, and cultural norms. We explore the concept of social hierarchies, how they were established, and the violence, both physical and psychological, that upholds them.

Our bodies are not just physical forms; they are vessels that house our senses, memories, experiences, and identities. We delve into how race, gender, sexuality, disability, and other identity dimensions are integral to our personhood. This episode challenges the notion of unconscious bias, 'colorblindness' and the erasure of identity, emphasising the importance of recognising and valuing our differences.

Privilege is not about wealth or ease of life; it's about the invisible advantages that certain identities afford in our social hierarchies. We delve into how race, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors contribute to privileged identities and examine the implications of these privileges. By understanding the privilege plug points, we can recognise how certain groups are automatically trusted, valued, and centred in society. 

Privilege often grants automatic trust, safety, and access to opportunities, yet it remains invisible to those who possess it. We delve into the effects of privilege and the responsibility of those who have it to recognise and repurpose it. Through personal stories and practical strategies, we learn how to use privilege to create spaces for marginalised voices, build authentic relationships across group boundaries, and drive social change.

We delve into how oppression places individuals at the lower end of social hierarchies, labelling them as less safe, less valuable, and less deserving. Through personal stories, we uncover the emotional and psychological toll of consistently fighting for respect and recognition in spaces where one's identity is devalued. We discuss the concept of internalised oppression and its impact on mental health, relationships, and self-perception. 

The three-step healing process includes recognising and owning your anger, externalising it, and practising self-compassion. By removing societal lenses of shame, we can see our true value and show up authentically. This episode encourages integrating conversations about identity and inclusion in all areas of life to dismantle biases and foster a more inclusive society.