Toward Progressive Inclusion and Acceptance: Myth or Reality? The Inclusion Debate and Bandwagon Discourse

Abstract

Inclusion has been a topic of discussions and debate among adapted physical activity professionals since the 1980s. Although the initial discussions focused primarily on inclusion as a place or placement, the discourse today about inclusion must be expanded to incorporate issues of context, disability rights, and social justice. Inclusion must now be reconceptualized as an attitude or a process. Progressive inclusion and acceptance is not a myth but a reality. As international attention and efforts are focused on physical education as a right of all children, APA professionals must forego bandwagons and adopt a strong philosophical stance that guides our efforts toward achieving inclusive physical education.