Everyone Belongs

There’s no shortage of confusing and harmful narratives about disability in the world. Too often, families are left to sort through myths and misinformation on their own. That’s why it matters so much to keep centering truth, dignity, and respect.

Last week, I had the joy of babysitting my sweet niece while her mom (my sister-in-law) visited her son’s kindergarten class to read a story and lead an art activity about inclusion. Watching her show up for those kids reminded me that legacy takes many forms. Sometimes it looks like policy change, sometimes like advocacy, and sometimes like reading aloud in a circle of five-year-olds.

The book she chose, Everyone Belongs by Heather Avis, is a beautiful reminder that difference is not something to fear or erase. Neurodiversity and disability are part of the human experience. Our role as parents, caregivers, and community members is to create spaces where everyone feels included, supported, and able to thrive.

Legacy isn’t just about money or documents. It’s also the values we model and pass on. For me, choosing inclusion, and celebrating those who do the work in small, everyday ways, is part of the story I want to leave for the next generation.