I believe that diversity makes us stronger. I also believe that many of us don’t know what being diverse means or the historical fact that we are all the same based on the root of 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 for this, but some believe that 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. A diverse individual is one that 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 the diversity with a growth mindset, not a fixed one.

Taking these 5 things into consideration is just the start.  We also have to focus on the end goal in our ability to coexist living 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 conversation fails due to conflict, face it and try again ultimately looking for that area of compromise.