Spark: Belonging and Sensory Inclusion
This week Meg Raby joined me for our podcast: Spark. She talked about her book, My Brother Otto, being an ambassador for KultureCity and how we can be a place of belonging and inclusivity for people who are neurodivergent and have sensory needs. Below she’s written this weeks blog so check out the podcast here and read more below:
By Megan Raby
The idea of someone not being able to attend a basketball game, a park date, a birthday party, a museum, to take a flight, to go to a restaurant or church, for that matter, is a reality for many due to a lack of accommodations and a differing neurology. The fancy term for someone with a differing neurology is “neurodivergent.” Friends,, we are currently in the center of the neurodivergent movement where what once were hidden disabilities are now being brought to light. Such types of disabilities include those with dementia, ADHD, PTSD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), sensory processing disorder, and autism. What often comes with such a disability are sensory processing differences that cause disturbance, dysregulation, and sometimes physical pain to those who process the senses within an environment in a different way than what is common among neurotypical individuals. Noises are too noisy. Lights are too bright. Smells are too strong. The physical environment is too visually busy. What happens then, is these individuals are often left out and stuck at home. And sure, they get used to being at home and they adapt, but with it frequently comes the notion that they will not get to experience the rich and wonderful world God has given us in the ways that many get to. Loneliness is ever present and the message of belonging is practically a lie, even if unintentionally.
KultureCity is a movement out of Birmingham, Alabama that makes all places and spaces accommodating for neurodivergent individuals, or those with sensory processing needs. They are being the hands and feet of Jesus, coming into various venues and sending a message of utmost hospitality, a message that is interwoven throughout the Bible and one we, at Missio, love to embrace. KultureCity provides sensory bags that contain noise cancelling headphones, a communication card for moments where speech is not possible, fidget toys and a weighted blanket. They also provide mobile sensory stations and even have contractors come into places to build sensory rooms that are low lit, comfortable, and provide visual stimulation that is both exciting and calming. They provide a place of peace.
It is with deep enthusiasm that I invite you to join the movement. Missio Dei is in process of becoming a church that is sensory inclusive, meaning it is an accommodating and understanding and welcoming place for those with hidden disabilities. And we have neurodivergent individuals in our midst all the time (hey-oh, here I am raising up my own hand!). There is an opportunity for you to take a 30 minute training course created by KultureCity so that you yourself can best be hospitable to the various folks who enter our doors. If interested please take the training here There is also an opportunity for you to get these same accommodations and training in your own workplaces, so if you’d like more information on that, please contact me at megraby@gmail.com. Finally, please consider donating financially (change for a dollar, in the drop down menu) if you are able as we are wanting to purchase giant bean bags for the back of the sanctuary to provide a comfortable place to worship for those who need. My dream is to get all of Salt Lake City and its surrounding suburbs sensory inclusive. To be a city in this world that sends a message that all are wanted and all belong and all are accommodated for. To be a city of love.
