Tips on Inclusivity This Passover

Passover is a unique time for friends and family to come together, share a meal discuss timeless themes of freedom and redemption and relate the Exodus from Egypt to the ongoing journey for justice that we are carrying out today. The seder emphasizes the importance of every participant learning from one another, passing wisdom between generations and experiences. The haggadah includes questions to help remind us that everyone is invited to participate and is encouraged to be curious. That why it is particularly important that Passover is approached with an inclusive attitude and an approach that allows participants to find value in whatever aspect of the experience they find the most meaningful. People with disabilities are no exception. We have compiled a number of resources that can be helpful—both practically and attitudinally—in preparing to make the holiday experience inclusive for all:

• As always, our partners at the Ruderman Family Foundation and offer thought-provoking questions and ideas, and Justin Ellis asks, “How inclusive was your Passover?”
• Consider looking at Jennifer Lazslo Mizrahi’s “10 Tips for Including People with Disabilities in Purim and Passover” for some suggestions of things to keep in mind for creating an inclusive environment.
• 6 Tips for Hosting a Disabilities-Friendly Seder from Abby Sher offers some simple and actionable ideas for making sure everyone garners all they can from the Passover experience. 
• From one of my Disability Rights Legislative Assistant predecessors, Deborah Goldberg: read about the story of Moses, a person with a disability and a hero of the Passover story.
• Matan has a number of excellent resources that can make your seder more interactive.

All of these resources also offer a springboard for your own creativity and personal approach to the seder. Most important is to embrace, and not shy away from, different ways that seder participants will find meaning in the holiday and its rituals. That requires intentionality and a willingness to learn from others, both of which are at the heart of the Passover tradition!