Making Space to Shine: Honoring JDAIM TogetherWe all possess unique gifts. Yet for many of us, those gifts do not easily blossom to their fullest potential. Our society prefers neat categories and familiar boxes — ways of defining people that feel comfortable and predictable. But real human beings rarely fit so neatly inside them. The disability community is the largest minority group in our society. It includes people of every age, background, and ability. And yet, too often, individuals with disabilities feel like they are on the margins. Each February, Jewish communities around the world observe Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM). JDAIM is more than a moment of awareness. It is a call to action — a reminder that inclusion is not an accommodation but a directive & an opportunity. When society can move past constraints it makes space for abilities. We need to intentionally created that space. When we see folks at events & services only occasionally that’s an invitation to reach out. They may be navigating physical, cognitive, or emotional barriers, (seen or unseen) but are longing for connection and have beautiful abilities. When we step outside our own experience and take the time to get to know folks better we create space for abilities to flourish creating blessings unimagined. Inclusion does not diminish our community. It deepens & expands it. This month reminds us to step outside our own experience & cultivate habits of inclusion. Those of us in the disability community have many abilities and talents to share, but we need to be seen to blossom! Shabbat Shalom, Chandar, JCVT Communications
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