Diversity is a simple word that can signify a multitude of things. We hear and know of racial, cultural, multicultural and ethnic diversity. We hear and know about how diversity in the workplace and the classroom is to be celebrated and encouraged. Numerous countries around the world are blessed with a diverse group of people living and working together more or less quite peacefully.
Immigrants from all racial and ethnic backgrounds and walks of life have enriched and contributed to the diversity of western countries such as the United States, Canada, and many European nations. Other countries such as China, Malaysia, India and some African countries have always had diverse ethnic groups and tribes living together, bound by shared cultural similarities or national loyalty.
Some other countries, on the other hand, are relatively homogenous. These countries include, for example, Finland, Iceland, Austria, North and South Korea and Japan. However, it is important that citizens and residents of these countries understand and appreciate diversity.
The world has become much smaller due to migration, travel and intermarriages, and will likely continue to “shrink”. It is best to educate and prepare young minds to appreciate diversity. There are ways to help small children learn about the beauty of diversity and it should be every parent’s obligation and responsibility to instill these values in them. It is never to young to learn and never to early to start. The children of today literally are the future of tomorrow.
It really is a small world after all.
Tags: cultural diversity