Diversity is a part of each of us and in our
DNA. Diversity should be celebrated not shunned or discriminated
against. Everything about our world is diverse. It should not matter what
color your skin is, where you were born, what language you speak, what
kind of car you drive, what religion you practice or the clothes you
wear. We are all people, we all think, feel, live. We are all equal.
Differences in the way we look, talk, think, religion we practice, cultures that define us and beliefs we uphold
Individuals need to learn that these 'differences' make you more of the same then different and to be accepting and respectful
Values are stemmed from the same basic beliefs and make bonds stronger, thus bringing people closer together not farther apart
Education of anti-biased learning and development is best and the foundation for making a more respectful, accepting, equal and supportive world
Realizing a child's identity is vitally important and can be strengthened or shattered depending on what is experienced needs to be protected in the classroom
Social settings, family units, community, media and educational settings that are biased create internalized oppression and privilege
Institutionalized biases are what create racism, discrimination and prejudices and can come from a system of rules, such as rules of commerce, rules of law, rules of social engagements, etc, develop around a cultural bias.
Traumas affect a child's growth, development and identities as much as diversity and both need to be supported.
Young children need supportive adults to help teach them how to develop a positive identity, self-esteem, and respect for others.
Thanks Rica for exposing us to the real truth of DIVERSITY. Hopefully many will read, and you could possible post at your job, so that others can self reflect and get a better understanding as to how to make the world a welcoming place for the collection of brilliant minds we work with daily.
ReplyDeleteRica,
DeleteI enjoyed your poem about diversity, you brought up some very important points that as educators in the classroom we need to remember and ensure that we are providing the environment that children deserve in our classroom. Diversity can be a positive things if we embrace its qualities and use them to teach children.
Hi Rica I enjoyed your views on what diversity mean to you.At a young age children's mind is so open to learn but what we teach and we teach will affect their minds for the rest of their life. Great post
ReplyDelete