Social diversity is the incorporation of various cultures and subcultures into a specific locale. Multiculturalism is the purposeful incorporation of same, such as in educational, business or municipal settings. Social diversity is something that is offensive to some, essential to others and simply unnoticed by many. At present, our nation is battling with antiquated ideals as to what the American facade should look like. I am specifically referencing our current struggles with immigration reform and equal rights for the GLBT community. The decisions we make as a country today regarding these matters are the history lessons future generations will study. What is it we want to teach them?
I am a second generation Irish American, having grown up hearing the stories of how and why my grandparents immigrated to America. There was always a deep-rooted love and a childlike smile accompanying their stories of what they affectionately called "the old country." The "American Dream" is best defined by the outsiders looking in. My grandparents came to the US in the 1950s to work, seek happiness and be part of a country that was moving in an exciting, positive direction. It is this understanding, paired with my passion for Latin American culture, that grant me a very open mind as far as immigration reform is concerned.
As a gay male I am constantly reminded of and frustrated by my lack of rights as a citizen under the Constitution. I have experienced harassment, aggression and ignorance by people within my same age group. I am not one who abides by a victim or "minority" mentality, but these experiences did show me the immense amount of good that multiculturalism and social diversity can do.
Incorporating multiple groups into society holds a great deal of power. By letting Americans see these "threats" to the American aesthetic, we can ease their fears and promote acceptance and understanding. This is why I believe Social Diversity is essential. As an educator, I see the impact of our words and actions at this crucial time, and how they will help shape the generations to come.
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