For the service I am doing later this month I am finding folks who have shown me examples of inclusion and practices of inclusion. I am inspired by their commitment and dedication to this practice.
I found Maya online when searching for a book about gender identity for our library and have since purchased a few of Maya’s books. The work Maya did alongside their own children provided the inspiration for many of the books. Maya is not only an author but an activist and progressive educator.
The approach Maya takes towards gender and body diversity is nature-based, decolonized and holistic. Maya provides training and workshops to educators, parents and caregivers.
I bought ‘they, She, he easy as ABC’ for our grandkids. One of my favorite lines from that book comes at the end – “Now’s your chance, We need your moves. Join the dance. There’s always room.
I love the idea of room, making room, giving space to those that need it, and allowing for creativity within the expanding landscape of community. I know this is not an easy process as those we make room for are different than ourselves and we are different to them as well. But when others become ‘all of us’ it is so beautiful.
I am probably going to enjoy more of these books down the road for sure and can’t wait to include them into my library.
~Lydia Patrick
