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DIVERSITY
Diversity can be defined as (quoted from Encarta online
dictionary):
di·ver·si·ty [ di vúrssətee, dī vúrssətee ] (plural di·ver·si·ties)
(noun):
1. variety: a variety of something
such as opinion, color, or style: a city
of great cultural diversity
2. social inclusiveness: ethnic
variety, as well as socioeconomic and gender variety, in a group, society, or
institution: a company committed to
diversity
(Encarta by MSN. “Diversity.”
msn.com. 31 March 2008 <http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/features/dictionary/DictionaryResults.aspx?refid=1861605560>)
American cultural diversity tends
to incorporate both of these concepts, celebrating variety and inclusiveness. Americans tend to think of diversity in
terms of ethnic diversity (Caucasians, African Americans, Hispanic Americans,
Native Americans, etc.) It is certainly
true that American culture is diverse in terms of ethnicity. However,
to think of diversity only in terms of skin color or ethnicity does not do
justice to this concept.
American culture is also diverse in
terms of lifestyle and sexuality-inclusive of gay, lesbian, bisexual,
transgendered and transsexual persons.
American culture is likewise
diverse in terms of religion. There are
many, many different religions practiced in the United States. Many traditional or mainstream religions
other than Christianity are practiced here, such as Judaism, Islam, and
Buddhism. Many less traditional
religions and sects exist in the United States as well, such as Wicca and
Scientology.
Some dimensions of diversity
include groups that many Americans do, or will belong to in the future. Women are considered a minority group; in
terms of numbers, one of the fastest growing groups is that of older Americans.
Many Americans are or will become
disabled, perhaps temporarily, at some time in their life. While many people think of disability as a
physical handicap; disability encompasses much more than the physical-such as
mental illness, learning disabilities, disease, or addiction.
American diversity is a concept
that should be thought of broadly and inclusively to promote understanding and
acceptance of all Americans. Diversity
is a complex concept. It is not possible to examine this topic completely in a guide such as this, so some
aspects of diversity, such as socioeconomic diversity and homelessness, are not
covered.
This research starting points guide
is not an exhaustive resource. Rather,
it is intended serve as a portal for the study of the concept of American
diversity in general and to aid in the exploration of some of the groups
mentioned above in more detail.
Good luck with your research!
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