The Western World defines gender inclusivity by thenotion that gender stereotypes do not define societalroles, and all opportunities are open to everyone,regardless of gender. There is a strong desire toreach gender equality by empowering women andgirls in their communities, as set forth in SustainableDevelopment Goal 5. Australian Aboriginalcommunities share a different perspective on genderinclusion that is based on overall community inclusion,rather than gender specifically.

The Aboriginal definition of inclusion placesthe community before the individual andrecognizes that a community is incompletewithout taking into account every individualwithin. This sense of community stems from astrong connection to spirituality, culture, andstrength that will be discussed in the following article.

WRITTEN BY ALLISON SALATA

SUPPORT BY KAMILA CIOK, ALIMURADOVA ORGANISATION