A person w a private acct asked this question:
"Is it possible to create an inclusive environment (enclosure) without simultaneously creating a space of exclusion (outside the enclosure)?"

Here's my answer... curious what you think:

This question used to plague me. I once ran a museum where we worked hard to expand who felt included. Some powerful patrons used the language of "exclusion" and "harm" to complain about the changes, even as people w less power felt welcome for the first time.

Were we "trading" inclusion of some for that of others? No. We were shifting power--and that facilitates inclusion.

You CAN create a place that is inclusive of all—safe and welcoming to them. But you cannot create a place that is relevant or attractive to all.

People w high power/status will claim you making it unattractive to them excludes them. It doesn’t. They aren’t unsafe nor unwelcome, just uninterested. People w power believe inclusion=their own pleasure & comfort. People w low power believe inclusion=safety & humanity.

When you prioritize the safety and welcome of people who have lower access to power, you are working for equity and inclusion. When you prioritize the comfort and preferences of people with higher access to power, you are working against it.

And yes, as a leader you can invite folks w high power to join you in funding, advocating, & taking pleasure in inclusive change. It takes saying, "we want everyone to feel as comfortable and joyful here as you do. Let's make some changes to make that possible."