In recent years, the conversation around inclusion has rightly focused on amplifying marginalised voices. Yet, as we strive to create a more inclusive society, it's crucial that we don't inadvertently marginalise others in the process.
True inclusion means ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, race, or gender, feels heard, valued, and respected.
Take, for example, the recent unrest in the UK, where deep-seated frustrations among various communities have come to the fore. Whilst shockingly some of the unrest translated into looting and thuggery with anger targeted towards minority groups, we must also recognise the growing sense of alienation among other segments of the populationparticularly young white boys and middle-aged white men who often feel overlooked in today’s inclusion narrative.
The Inclusion by Default campaign, which has been a focal point for driving forward a more inclusive society, is about ensuring that inclusivity is embedded into the very fabric of our communities, workplaces, and institutions. However, for inclusion to be truly meaningful, it must encompass everyone. This includes those young white boys who increasingly feel left behind in education and employment opportunities, and middle-aged white men who find themselves struggling to adapt in a rapidly changing economy.
I recall a conversation with a friend, a significant White entrepreneur, who expressed his frustration with how the inclusion narrative seemed to have shifted so far towards addressing the needs of minority groups that people like him were being sidelined. His perspective was an important reminder: inclusion isn’t a zero-sum game. It’s not about taking opportunities away from one group to give them to another; it’s about expanding the table so that everyone has a seat.
True inclusion demands a balanced approachone that acknowledges the challenges faced by all groups and ensures that no one feels left out of the conversation. This is where the concept of equity comes into play. Equity is about recognising that different people face different barriers and that our approach to inclusion must be tailored to meet these varied needs.
For instance, in certain areas of the UK, young white boys are increasingly feeling disconnected from the opportunities available to them. This is a pressing issue that requires attention, just as much as the systemic inequalities that have historically affected minority communities. Similarly, middle-aged white men, particularly those who have seen industries they relied on decline, often find themselves struggling to find their place in the modern world. Their voices matter too, and their inclusion is critical to the overall health of our society.
As we look ahead, the Inclusion by Default campaign and the Inclusive Innovation Framework provide the tools to create a society where everyone’s voice is valued. But these tools require action. We must commit to expanding the inclusion conversation to ensure that it genuinely reflects the diversity of experiences across our society.
Inclusion isn’t about choosing which voices to amplify at the expense of others. It’s about building a society where every voice matterswhere young white boys, middle-aged white men, and all other groups have an equal opportunity to contribute and thrive. The strength of our society lies in our ability to unite and uplift all voices, ensuring that no one is left behind powering us on towards a healthier, happier and wealthier future.
Ammar Mirza CBE is Chair & Founder of Asian Business Connexions, Chair of the NELEP Business Growth Board, Honorary Colonel of 101 Regiment RA and holds various positions across the public and private sectors.