Uncovering Diversity in Our World

Going through the modules and different reading assignments for this course has been an eye-opening experience for me. We are fortunate enough to live in a very diverse world, however, several groups have dealt with oppression for many, many years. Many times during this course, I was challenged to analyze diversity and cultural issues in our world. If I were to make a change to my approach when addressing cultural issues, I would say that I need to focus on being more aware of the diversity issues in our world. To accomplish this, I want to make more of a conscious effort in regard to listening to others and asking questions to gain better understanding of a culture. Many of the cultural issues that arise come from lack of understanding. I believe that it is important to ask questions about things that you may not know much about rather than just basing your opinions off of preconceived ideas.

Earlier in this course, we read Critical Multicultural Social Work, where we learned more about what can impact a person’s worldview involving cultural differences and social construction. I wouldn’t say that reading this book made me question what I thought about diversity, yet I have noticed that I have a better understanding of how one’s own view on diversity is shaped. Where you grew up, and what you were taught growing up can heavily influence your view regarding diversity at a young age. "It is possible to explore the meaning of one's identity, examine the ways in which identity formation takes place, and understand the ways in which these identities influence how the world is experienced" (Sisneros, pg. 20).

Different parts of the country have lived differently so people’s view point on diversity most likely will be shaped by where they come from. For example, someone that grew up in the South may be more familiar or aware of the issues involving racial inequality because of the deep history involving the south and racism. I have realized that I am more receptive to the fact that everyone has their own view on diversity and the cultural differences in our world. This was also shown by Malala Yousafzai’s worldview being shaped by the historical context of her culture, which we read about in I Am Malala.

Throughout the last couple of weeks, the discussion posts made me really think about what kind of role I could play involving change movements. I feel that the knowledge that I have gained through the readings and discussions for this class will impact my confidence going into my future actions. Even if I don’t see the major changes I dream of in my lifetime, I want to be able to look back and realize that I have somehow impacted the gradual process of a sustainable change. I need to do my part and stand up for what I believe in by voicing my opinions when necessary. The job profession that I am working to pursue in the future is in college athletics. In college athletics, job positions that are being filled by African-Americans are increasing. However, there are not very many African-American women that work in this job profession. In another year as I begin my career as an African-American woman, I never want to be settling for jobs just because I don’t believe I will be hired in that position because of my gender, race, beliefs, etc. In a profession that is largely dominated by males, I want to be a part of a change where more women are getting hired for the top jobs. One way that I feel particularly compelled as a change agent is when dealing with our youth. I believe that it is essential to educate our youth about what is going on in our world. They are the future and will continue to play a role in the processes of change. Our youth need to believe that they can stand up for change.

If I were to be honest, initially reading about the role an ally plays in a community was very intimidating. When first reading about what makes an ally, I couldn’t see myself fitting the description at all. After reflecting, I then began to realize that it’s okay if I take small steps in working to become a change agent or ally. In the reading, Interrupting the Cycle of Oppression: The Role of Allies as Agents of Change, it mentioned “Other allies will help us take the small, daily steps that will, in time, alter the character of our communities” (Ayvazian, pg. 614). I have never been a very outspoken person, but I do feel that I could be more intentional with my actions in regard to community engagement. In my last post, I mentioned that I plan to become more involved in the community that I live in. Empathy is a very important skill to have. I plan to take the time to learn about my community and the people that are a part of it. Listening and becoming more involved in my own community will continue to expand my mind when talking about other cultures, communities, and groups. My main hope and goal going into the future of dealing with change is just “being consistently conscious” (Ayvazian, pg. 615) with my actions and behavior. “The best we can hope for is to strive each day to be our strongest and clearest selves, transforming the world one individual at a time, one family at a time, one community at a time” (Ayvazian, pg. 615).