Kindness is Fostering Inclusion: How to Show Up for Disability Pride Month with Bonny Dieterich

In this episode of the Kindness Is Podcast host Kaitlin is joined Bonny Dieterich. They dive into a heartfelt discussion about embracing Disability Pride. Bonny, an educator and author of the book "Recess Magic," shares her personal experiences as a person with disabilities and the importance of disability inclusion. They explore the significance of Disability Pride Month, the need for representation in children's literature, and the power of empathy and compassion in building inclusive communities.Discover how Bonny's journey inspired her to write "Recess Magic" and create a story that resonates with young readers. Explore the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the impact of societal stigma. Learn about the role of educators in promoting inclusivity and creating safe spaces for all students, particularly during back-to-school read-alouds.The conversation delves into the concept of being a disability ally and the actions we can take to support and uplift disabled voices. Join Kaitlin and Bonny on this transformative journey of compassion, empathy, and the pursuit of a more inclusive society.Let's embrace Disability Pride, amplify voices, and create meaningful change.Quotes"The disability community makes up 15% of the world's population, I believe. Which is the largest minority group""this is the book that I needed when I was a child, but I didn’t have.""I remember thinking to myself as a young student that nobody understood, no one was like me, of course, there were no books on the shelf that represented me.""Oftentimes, I think as adults we want to shield our young learners from books that portray different perspectives.""I'm hoping that some other educators this year will feel comfortable not only putting it on their display but reading Recess Magic, talking about the community that the classroom should be. And also how to welcome and accept people who are different.""Those conversations, I know they're difficult. But I'm asking everyone to lean in to discomfort and to understand that these conversations are crucial to moving our planet forward.""You don't need to be the most knowledgeable voice to be an ally. Let your actions speak volumes.""I think that connecting with our struggles and really honoring our individual stories and taking action to end the stigma of disability would make the most impact""When I talk about privilege I mean that there is an absence of barriers""Everybody has a story. We need to honor everyone's story.""Are you in your heart truly doing this with a good intention? Not because it makes you look good.""My deepest definition of kindness is showing compassion to all people. To make space for them and root for them and to support them. "Kindness is saying you matter and I'm so glad you're here. You are important. And it's letting your actions speak for themselves. It's understanding that again, we have room to have an open mind to get there to grow our minds.""Kindness is the right thing to do."Connect with us on social media:Kind Cotton InstagramKind Cotton TikTok