Creating Inclusion Welcome Statements: A Simple Yet Powerful Step Toward Workplace Belonging

In today’s workplaces, diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords, they’re essential values that shape how teams collaborate, communicate, and thrive. While many organisations have formal Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) statements on their websites, or in their policies, there’s a growing recognition that inclusion needs to be lived and felt in everyday interactions, not just written down.

One simple but impactful way to bring inclusion into the everyday is through an Inclusion Welcome Statement at the start of your workplace meetings.

At EmployAbility, we always include our statement during meetings and workshops, so our staff (over 75% of whom have a physical disability) and clients know they can relax into a welcoming and valued environment.

What Is an Inclusion Welcome Statement?

An Inclusion Welcome Statement is a short, spoken message, usually just a few sentences, shared at the beginning of a meeting, workshop, or event. It’s designed to set the tone, acknowledge diversity, and signal that the space is safe, respectful, and inclusive for everyone.

Unlike a formal corporate diversity statement, which outlines an organisation’s long-term commitment to D&I, an inclusion welcome statement is immediate, personal, and practical. It’s a way to actively demonstrate inclusion in real time.

If you have been watching the show ‘The Assembly’ on ABC, you may have noticed the students reading out their statement before each interview formally begins.

“This is a safe space. Everyone can relax and be themselves.  There will be no judgement. Please do what you need to join in for example fidget, move, take a break. Ask if you need anything to help you be included.”

What is the difference between an Inclusion Welcome Statements and a Corporate Diversity Statement?

Think of your corporate diversity statement as the “why”, the overarching commitment to diversity and inclusion. The inclusion welcome statement is the “how”, a small but meaningful action that brings those values to life in everyday settings.

When used consistently, these statements reinforce your organisation’s D&I goals and help build a culture where inclusion is not just policy, but practice.

Who Should Use One?

Anyone who leads or facilitates meetings can use an inclusion welcome statement. This includes:

• Team leaders and managers
• HR professionals
• Project leads
• Workshop facilitators
• Executives and board members

It’s especially valuable in meetings that include:

• People with lived experience of disability
• Neurodiverse participants
• Cross-functional or cross-cultural teams
• External stakeholders or community members

Why Is It So Important?

Inclusion Welcome Statements are important because:

• Help people feel seen and respected from the outset
• Reduce anxiety by setting expectations for a safe and flexible environment
• Encourage participation by validating different ways of engaging
• Build trust and psychological safety
• Demonstrate leadership in action, not just words

Even a few thoughtful sentences can make a big difference in how people experience your workplace.

A Step-by-Step Guide

We have put together a step-by-step process for organisations to write their own short Inclusion Welcome Statements. These statements don’t need to be long or formal; even a few sincere sentences can make a meaningful impact.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Intent

• Ask: Why do we want to include an Inclusion Welcome Statement?
• Consider the tone and purpose of your meeting; Are you welcoming new participants, setting a collaborative tone, or acknowledging diverse perspectives?

Step 2: Identify Core Values

• Choose 1–2 values your organisation stands for (e.g. inclusion, respect, belonging).
• Keep it authentic and aligned with your culture.

Step 3: Acknowledge Diversity

• Briefly acknowledge the diversity in the room or the broader community.
• You can mention lived experiences, backgrounds, identities, or perspectives without listing them all.

Step 4: Express Commitment

• State your commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive space.
• Use simple, direct language like: “We’re committed to making sure everyone feels heard and valued.”

Step 5: Invite Participation

• Encourage open dialogue and contributions from all attendees.
• Example: “We welcome all voices and encourage you to share your thoughts freely.”

Step 6: Keep It Short and Warm

• Aim for 2–4 sentences.
• Use a conversational tone that feels natural in a meeting setting.

Example Statements:

Formal Meeting Context

“Before we begin, I want to acknowledge the diverse experiences and perspectives each of you brings to this space. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and encouraged to contribute. Your voice matters here.”

 Internal Team Meeting Context

“Before we get started, I want to acknowledge that this is a safe and inclusive space. You’re encouraged to be yourself, whether that means speaking up, taking a break, moving around, or just listening in. There’s no judgement here, and if there’s anything you need to feel more included or supported, please let us know. We value each of you and the unique perspectives you bring.”

External Meeting Context

“Thank you for joining us today. We want to begin by acknowledging and welcoming the diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives you bring to this space. This is an inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to participate in ways that feel comfortable, whether that means speaking up, taking a moment, or engaging in your own way. If there’s anything we can do to support your inclusion, please don’t hesitate to let us know.”

These versions keep the tone professional yet warm, and signals openness and respect without being overly formal.

Lived Experience of Physical Disability

Here’s a version specifically for meetings or events involving people with lived experience of physical disability. It’s designed to be respectful, inclusive, and empowering, while keeping the tone warm and conversational:

“We want to start by acknowledging and welcoming the lived experiences of people with physical disability in this space. Your insights and presence are deeply valued. This is a space where you’re encouraged to participate in whatever way feels right for you, whether that means moving, taking breaks, using assistive devices, or asking for support. Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to help you feel more included and comfortable.”

EmployAbility’s Welcome: If you would like to download a copy of our EmployAbility Inclusion Welcome Statement for reference, please feel free to do so here.

Ready to Now Make Inclusion Part of Every Meeting?

As we have now shown, Inclusion Welcome Statements are a simple yet powerful way to turn your organisation’s diversity values into everyday practice.

Whether you’re leading internal team check-ins or engaging with external partners, these statements help create spaces where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered to contribute.

If you’re ready to start using them or want support in crafting statements that reflect your team’s values and lived experiences, please reach out to the EmployAbility Building Employer Confidence (BEC) team. We’re here to help you build inclusive practices that truly make a difference.

Contact the EmployAbility BEC team to learn more or get started.