Different roads at times lead to the same castle. … That is very true, especially when it comes to diversity. Cultivating a culture of respect, caring and inclusion of differences among students helps reduce school-based risk factors for children from different backgrounds. It is good to give students an opportunity to identify prejudices as well as similarities and differences among each other with regard to celebrating diversity. It is true that cultural differences among students in most cases occasionally create challenges in the classroom, but when we start to celebrate the differences, it will automatically create an awesome environment.
In All of Us Multicultural policy for Victoria 2009, Hon John Brumby and James Merlino, MP, P.2., are quoted as saying:
“While respecting our differences is necessary in an open, inclusive and vibrant society, it is also vital to acknowledge that we have much in common. We have much to gain individually and collectively, by working together to build a positive and progressive future that enhances our state as a great place in which to live, work, invest and raise family.”
The traditional owners of the present State of Victoria in Australia were made up of 40 language groups with diverse traditions and cultures. Educators who are culturally competent, respect multiple culture ways of knowing, seeing and living, they celebrate the benefits of diversity and have an ability to understand and honor differences. Culture competence is much more than awareness of cultural differences; it is the ability to understand, communicate with and effectively interact with people across cultures. It encompasses:
Christian, Jews, Muslims, Shaman, Zoroastrian, stone, ground, mountain, river, each has a secret way of being with the mystery, unique and not to be judged … so be it true with our diversity. In order to celebrate our diversity in education, the following are very important:
A culturally inclusive classroom is one where students and staff alike recognize, appreciate and capitalize on diversity so as to enrich the overall learning experience. Fostering a culturally inclusive learning environment encourages all individuals regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation or political beliefs to develop personal contacts and effective intercultural skills.
It is time for parents and educators alike to teach young people early on in life that, in diversity, there is beauty and there is strength. With this in mind, the following questions, answered correctly and honestly by parents and educators toward their children, can help us in celebrating differences among students:
