Travelling to Ordu, I could see the Black Sea stirring, ever-shifting, in stark contrast to the static architecture of the city. In a world that prides itself on progress and increasing inclusivity, I often question the true extent of our advancement. Are we truly above the prejudices of history upon which the cities of today are built?

The story of Sedef Erken, a Turkish lawyer and devoted mother, is one such example of the ongoing fight against discrimination and the lack of inclusivity in the education system, particularly for children with autism. As both a lawyer and a mom to her son, Ozan, who is on the autism spectrum, Sedef’s battle doesn’t simply come from just a personal desire to ensure a better future for her child. It is a larger battle to create a more inclusive society for all children.

Private schools often turned a blind eye to the needs of children like Ozan, leaving them marginalized and deprived of the opportunities they deserved. Growing up I don’t remember my school providing space to learners with IDDs,  and while there are bright spots now, there is still a lot of work to be done in creating inclusive learning experiences. Looking beyond standardized learning, schools can do away with the first barrier that hinders the growth of children with IDDs, reinforcing the notion that their differences as strengths to be celebrated, not obstacles