The extent to which a facility is readily approachable and usable by individuals with physical disabilities, such as self-opening doors, elevators for upper levels, or raised lettering on signs. Also the term refers to being admitted to and entering programs such as ours.

Tendency, inclination, or prejudice toward or against something or someone Prejudice: an inclination or preference, especially one that interferes with impartial judgment. (look at common language paper)

The customary beliefs, social forms, and material traits of a racial, religious, or social group. These groups are distinguished by a set of unspoken rules that shape values, beliefs, habits, patterns of thinking, behaviors and styles of communication.

Diversity is the representation of our various identities and differences (race, ethnicity, gender, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, tribe, socio-economic status, family constellation, religion, thinking and communication styles, etc.), collectively and as individuals.

A socially constructed grouping of people who share a common cultural heritage derived from values, behavioral patterns, language, religion, political and economic interests, history, geographical base, and ancestry. Examples include: Cape Verdean, Haitian, African American (Black); Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese (Asian); Cherokee, Mohawk, Navajo (Native American); Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican (Latino); Polish, Irish, and Swedish (White European). It is often used interchangeably with the term race.

Fair treatment, equality of opportunity, and fairness in access to information and resources for all.

Socially constructed concepts of masculinity and femininity which are attributes conventionally associated with biological sex.

Negative associations (i.e. attitudes and beliefs) subconsciously held by people of which they are not aware. Many studies indicate that implicit biases affect individuals’ attitudes and actions, thus creating real-world implications.

A culture of belonging by actively inviting the contribution and participation of all people. At NCRC and in the education world, inclusion also refers to the acceptance of children who require additional support and adaptations.

Intent is what a person meant to do and the impact is the effect it had on someone else. Regardless of intent, it is imperative to recognize how behaviors, language, actions etc. affect or influence other people. 

An individual that comes from more than one race. An individual whose parents are born from more than one race.

A concept where neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation. These differences can include those labeled with Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autistic Spectrum and others.

Those not affected with a developmental disorder and especially autism spectrum disorder: exhibiting or characteristic of typical neurological development.

Unearned social power accorded by the formal and informal institutions of society to all members of a dominant group (e.g. White privilege, male privilege, etc.). Privilege is usually invisible to those who have it.

A social construct and not a biological concept; it defines groups of human beings based on genetically transmitted characteristics, i.e., physical characteristics, including color.

The beliefs, attitudes, and actions of individuals that support or perpetuate racism; can occur at both a conscious and unconscious level, and can be active or passive. A system of advantage and/or oppression based on race.

Being at risk of confirming, as self-characteristic, a negative stereotype about one's group.