The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington’s Disability Inclusion Committee is a group of individuals with and without disabilities who are united in the belief that all have a right to be included. Numerous Jewish teachings ground the work of the committee; most notably, an understanding that everyone is created B’tzelem Elohim (“in the image of G-d”), that we should teach each child according to their way, and the need for anavah, the humility to recognize our own biases and appreciate others’ lived experiences.

Over the past 20 years, disabilities inclusion in the Greater Washington Jewish community has progressed, but there is more work to be done. Our community is now a place where individuals with disabilities can grow up attending inclusive Jewish preschools, day schools, congregations, and summer camps. However, the greatest area of need for Jews with disabilities in the DMV is among Jewish young adults. Individuals who experienced inclusive educational and recreational programs as children and teenagers have the same expectation for inclusive Jewish programming as young adults.

Responding to this need, the Federation gathered nine local organizations to participate in the Lieberman Fellowship for Professionals Serving Young Adults. Together, we imagine a future where young adults with disabilities will have a choice of careers, the opportunity to live where they want, and reciprocal and supportive social groups.

The desire to belong is universal; inclusion is the first step in creating an overall sense of belonging. We must create the conditions that “invite” people with disabilities to participate in a community environment in which all members feel recognized, respected, and valued.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and Jewish Community Foundation are committed to building a culture of diversity, equity, and belonging. Inclusion is necessary across every age, life stage, religious affiliation, ethnicity, race, gender and sexual identity, political affiliation, and ability. During JDAIM we focus on disability inclusion because, despite the fact that individuals with disabilities are found within all the other marginalized groups, those with disabilities are at times left out of more general inclusion efforts. Together, we strive to create a community where everyone feels truly seen, valued, cared for, and a sense of belonging.