Social inclusion and exclusion
Inclusion means providing equal opportunities so all people can fully engage in creating an environment and a cultural attitude whereby everyone and every group fits in, feels accepted, has value and is supported by a foundation built on trust and mutual respect (Wright, 2019).
Social inclusion (or connectedness) involves making all groups of people feel included and valued within their society or community (Royal College of Nursing [RCN], 2021). Groups or individuals who are excluded (or who experience life on the margins of society) often have poorer health outcomes. Certain illnesses, disabilities, beliefs and values can also lead to individuals or groups facing related challenges, such as stigma, discrimination and other barriers (RCN, 2021).
Social exclusion involves the lack or denial of resources, rights, goods and services. It describes the inability to participate in the relationships and activities available to the majority of people in a society, whether in economic, social, cultural or political arenas (RCN, 2021).
People of African descent are not a homogenous group. There are differences in generation status, ethnic and cultural origins, immigration, geography, language, and more (CAMH, 2021b). These differences mean that one size does not fit all when delivering programs and services.
The reasons for people being excluded are layered and complex. They can result from the following factors:
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Age
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Ethnicity
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Homelessness
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Ill health (physical or mental)
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Poverty and financial hardship
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Race/racism
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Sexual orientation
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Unemployment
Challenges understanding and navigating the system (e.g., because they do not speak English, have learning disabilities or live with a mental health problem or illness)
Exclusion can also affect specific demographic groups, such as refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants, and people who are incarcerated or navigating the criminal justice system (RCN, 2021).