Section:
diversity
One of the most common needs for humans is the need to belong. Each of us has a strong desire “to belong” somewhere. We belong to various groups that contribute to our identity as a person. The groups to which we belong and where we feel most comfortable are called our in-groups. Groups that appear to be different from our in-groups or that we may not be a member of simply by our physical features are referred to as our out-groups. Despite the many differences that exist between groups due to variations in looks and/or behaviors there are also many similarities between group members since we all belong to the human race.
How do we begin to recognize similarities? How do we begin to embrace diversity in a manner that treats others with dignity and respect? Does treating another with respect really depend on one’s race, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, religion, ethnicity, social status, economic status, job position, etc.?
In order to fully accept diversity and work toward becoming inclusive, an individual must be willing to move beyond his/her comfort zone of always being with the familiar and risk letting go of fears and building trust with members of out-groups identified by that person. Taking time alone and reflecting on personal beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors is a beginning step to owning one’s stereotypes, prejudices, and perhaps discriminatory behaviors.
This section provides some reflective questions that can aid in the process of moving toward a conversion of attitude while striving to understand:
- how my background and experiences shape my identity;
- what groups I am most comfortable interacting with;
- what groups I feel cause me discomfort;
- what actions I need to embrace in order to address stereotypes, prejudices, and discriminatory behaviors.
May your time of reflection be blessed with grace and courage.
Group Membership
The groups I belong to enhance my personal identity and provide comfort due to familiarity of group members. My associations with in-group members can affect my social perceptions of members of identified out-groups and I can begin to categorize individuals according to stereotypes which may influence how I treat members of out-groups.
- What reactions/feelings/thoughts do I have when I hear the terms diversity and multiculturalism
- What groups do I identify with the most?
- What groups do I have a particularly difficult time relating to? Why?
- What groups do I have identifiable negative thoughts about? What is underneath the thoughts?
- Are there groups I am aware of avoiding? What stereotypes do I have toward these groups?
- What steps am I willing to take to address my stereotypes toward out-group members?
Racial Diversity
Each of us has a racial identity that influences how I treat others and how others treat me. Despite the belief that race does not matter - all are created equal - discrimination of others based on skin color does continue to exist in all aspects of life.
- What impact has your racial group’s status and position in larger society had on your racial identity development?
- How do you describe yourself racially? What behaviors, values, thoughts, and feelings do you have that characterize your racial identity? What do these identifications mean to you at this time in your life?
- Think about the stereotypes (both negative and positive) that you hold about various racial groups. Identify them specifically for various groups by writing them down or saying them out loud. Try to identify the origins of each stereotype.
- What experiences have you had being in the minority? What was that like for you?
- When you are in the minority, how do you interact with the minority? When you are in the minority, how do you interact with the majority?
Diversity of Age
Currently, there are four generations making up the workforce in society. Distinct differences mark each generation. Getting to know the characteristics of each generation contributes to a better understanding of behaviors within all multigenerational groups.
- Have I taken time to get to know the various differences of generations?
- What do I know about my generation?
- What do I know about other generations?
- Do I recognize generational differences in my surroundings? How? Where?
- Am I able to appreciate the differences of various generations? Am I generation friendly?
- Am I able to help others recognize and appreciate the differences of various generations.
Diversity of Sexual Orientation
The Church teaches understanding and compassion toward gay and lesbian people. American bishops state that “no person should suffer from prejudice against basic human rights due to his/her sexual orientation.” Heterosexism is the belief that heterosexuality is superior to homosexuality – the presumption that everyone is straight, and if not, they should be. Homophobia is the irrational fear of homosexuals and homosexuality in the form of harassment, discrimination, and discomfort in developing trust.
- What messages were given in your family about sexual orientation? What was acceptable? Not acceptable?
- Can you identify with the terms homophobia and heterosexism?
- Do you see examples of heterosexism in your daily life? How is heterosexism manifested?
- How do you react when in the company of someone who verbalizes that they are gay or lesbian?
- Do you see examples of homophobia in your daily life? How is homophobia manifested?
- How can I walk with someone who is questioning their sexual orientation?
Diversity expressed in Movies
Select a movie from the Resource List (or one of your choosing) and spend time viewing it alone or with others. Often times issues portrayed on the movie screen will present issues that resonate with our own experiences. Once the movie is over take some quiet time to respond to the following questions and share your reflections with at least one other person. This process deepens our awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and attitudes.
- What feelings were stirring within you as viewed the film?
- What experiences of the characters resonate with you? Why?
- What experiences of the characters disturb you? Why?
- Are there any comparisons that you can make between the film and “real life” experiences?
- What message can be taken from the movie?
