Diversity makes us stronger, but many of us don’t know what that looks like, what it means, or the biological fact that we are more along than different, starting from our existence. Being diverse takes us coming together as people no matter what we have grown to title ourselves.  Science has shown that the Human species evolved from one species, “homo sapiens.”  Further definitions describe Homo sapiens (Latin: “wise man”) as the scientific name for the human species.  So why has this designation of cultures encouraged us to have contact only within that family or race or even that religion we have associated us with? There are numerous reasons, but in my training to be mindful at all times, some of the lack of cohesion between races, sexes, and cultures is due to mistrust, stereotyping within cultures, and language problems. We can’t change what we don’t know, but not working on changing diverse perspectives is like having a fixed mindset in learning. I aim to bridge educational gaps among diverse individuals because we are better together. Still, we are too busy not loving this unless we are in a crisis.

A diverse individual values the difference in people and starts with safe conversations and openness. Here are some tenants to start the conversation.

1. Be committed to inclusion.
2. Make diversity one of your core values and beliefs.
3. Take advantage of diverse talent and promote awareness.
4. Develop an understanding and respect for things different from you.
5. Approach diversity with a growth mindset, not a fixed one.

    

   Taking these five things into consideration is just the start. We also have to focus on the end goal of our ability to coexist and live in peace with each other, especially as a matter of policy. This means developing a sense of emotional intelligence only you can commit to. If a conversation fails due to conflict, face it and try again, ultimately looking for that area of compromise. ~ Dr. E