Liberal progressives in the United States typically interpret inclusion as meaning proactive efforts made to ensure all individuals, no matter their race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic background or other characteristics are fully engaged and represented within any social, political or organizational setting. Inclusion can take various forms; its meaning may change over time as interpretation shifts and interpretation evolves. It generally refers to efforts taken to ensure all are fully represented regardless of any characteristic such as race, gender age religion socioeconomic background etc.

Here are some key aspects of how “inclusion” is commonly understood in progressive circles:

1. Representation: Representing all groups – especially those historically marginalized or underrepresented – at every table where decisions are being made is fundamental to inclusion, whether it’s government, the workplace, education or any other institution.

2. Equity over Equality: Inclusion requires an emphasis on equity rather than equality, meaning not treating everyone equally, but levelling the playing field for all and giving everyone access to resources for success; this may mean providing different types of support depending on individual circumstances.

3. Intersectionality: Exploring how different identities (such as race, gender and sexual orientation ) intersect to form unique systems of privilege or disadvantage can be central to creating an inclusive approach.

4. Accessibility: Accessibility is about providing spaces, services, and opportunities accessible to everyone – this includes those living with disabilities.

5. Voice and Agency: In an inclusive environment, individuals have both the freedom and agency to express themselves freely, participate in decision-making processes affecting them, and have their needs and perspectives considered.

6. Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizing and respecting the diversity of people’s cultural backgrounds is integral to creating inclusive environments. This means rejecting universal solutions in favor of more tailored approaches that take into account cultural, historical, and sociological nuances.

7. Continuous Learning: Finally, inclusion is often understood to be an ongoing journey that demands constant effort, self-examination, and adjustment as conditions shift and new perspectives emerge.

These principles can be found across a range of settings, from corporate diversity and inclusion programs to educational curricula to public policy decisions and beyond. While not everyone may share an agreement about what inclusion means or its implementation – and some even question whether inclusion should even exist at all – these issues remain contentious among both progressive circles as well as more conservative circles.