Models of diversity
Essential HumanityCultural EnrichmentConflict and PowerWhat is diversity?Despite our different backgrounds, all human beings are essentially the same inside.

Differences are minor aspects of who we are that distract us from our essential, shared humanity.

Difference is only a problem when we pay attention to it.
  Because we come from different backgrounds, we may think and act differently.  Those differences reflect the histories and values of the cultural groups to which we belong.  

Our differences make us who we are as individuals and as part of cultural groups. 

Differences are assets to us as individuals, because they connect us with others and may give us special ways of seeing the world and special skills. 

Together, our differences create a rich national culture.Diversity is a source of conflict and struggle.

Diversity reflects and contributes to inequality and division within society.

The categories of diversity have been assigned meaning by the society in order to secure the privileges of some and provide a rationale for limiting the opportunities of others.

These categories have been used to define what is “normal” & what isn’t, including who is a “real” American.
How should we respond to it?Try not to notice or comment on the ways in which anyone else is “different.”  

Don’t talk about it.  

Treat everyone the same.  

Focus on the things we have in common.Recognize and celebrate each other’s differences.

Focus on the positive aspects of people’s differences.

Use differences as a tool for solving problems.Expose and understand how diversity creates and sustains inequality and injustice.

Critique the ways that our uses of and responses to difference benefit some and disadvantage others.

Develop strategies to create greater equality by directly addressing inequities tied to diversity.