As we stand on the threshold of a new year (hello, 2024!), it is a moment to reflect on the progress made this year and set our sights on the future. Yes, it’s that time of year to think about new resolutions… or at the very least some things I’d wish would happen in the upcoming year.
While I admit that I am much better at making wishes than I am at keeping resolutions, here are some wishes I have for 2024.
First, and foremost, I wish for a world that embraces kindness and empathy, where people from all walks of life can come together to foster understanding and support. I sincerely hope for a society filled with compassion, so that we may break down barriers and build bridges that connect us on the basis of a shared humanity. Specifically, within the disability community, my hope is for increased awareness and inclusivity. I aspire to see a world where accessibility (in all sectors) is not an afterthought, but an integral part of our infrastructure.
In education, my wish is that educational systems work to cater towards diverse learning needs. In the new year, my hope is that there is curriculum that celebrates the differences and provides every student, regardless of their ability, the tools they need to succeed and grow. When inclusivity is nurtured in schools, then there can be a future where everyone can contribute their unique talents to a better society.
In professional settings, my hope is that there is more diversity inclusion, with a focus on finding ways to support people with disabilities. A workplace that accommodates and celebrates the differences can only enrich the professional setting and set up the stage for societal changes, especially about what people with disabilities can achieve.
Finally, my last wish extends towards fostering a global community that actively listens and learns from one another. When we can amplify the voices of those, especially in the disability community, we are able to understand their experiences and pave the way towards a more equitable and compassionate space. As we embark on 2024, my hope is that we can continue to commit to the collective effort needed to turn these wishes into part of our realities.
What would you add to your 2024 wish list? What can you do to help make them happen?