At The Kelsey, we talk a lot about inclusive communities and the type of people who would want to live in them. We often use the term “Inclusion Natives” to describe people with and without disabilities who grew up in inclusive settings. We want to take a moment to explain what we mean when we talk about Inclusion Natives and why they are so important to our work.
Our Co-Founder, Kelsey O’Connor, passed away on March 28th. She was and remains our reason for being — she taught us so much about community, love, resiliency, friendship, and inclusion. Kelsey sparked more impact in her 31 years than most people dream of in a lifetime. We miss her more than words but we know her legacy lives on — and will live for a long long time.
Individuals with disabilities and advocates have been fighting for thoughtful supports, inclusion in communities, and independent living since the 1960s “based on the premise that people with even the most severe disabilities should have the choice of living in the community.” The challenge isn’t new, but the solutions will need to be.