Difference and diversity
Imagine a world in which we all looked the same, listened to the same music, ate the same food and watched the same films. Apart from the fact that they’d always have jeans in our size it would be a pretty dull and depressing place. Fortunately there’s a lot of diversity out there in opinions, values, politics, culture, race, body shape, size, sexuality, religion etc. Strangely, some people just can’t stomach the fact that people are different and don’t behave exactly as they do. Being scared or threatened by this difference can lead to intolerance and prejudice.
By accepting other people’s differences we can reduce the amount of conflict and hate we have in our lives. This same principle works even on a global scale. Most wars – and therefore most suffering – is down to people thinking that because another group of people do things differently they must be wrong or even bad.
If we find ourselves taking against someone just because they have different views, looks, sexual preferences etc., it might be a good idea to examine what’s going though our head. Also trying to see things from someone else’s point of view can help break down any barriers and build understanding.
Don’t see differences as faults in a person. They are themselves and you are yourself. Walk beside their difference and enjoy what they have to give you.
Racism
People from black and ethnic minorities make up a substantial proportion of the population of modern multi-cultural Britain. Discrimination based upon race can be extremely damaging to anyone on the receiving end. Racism can take many forms. It can be direct e.g. verbal threats or physical violence, or indirect e.g. not being promoted at work. It can take place in practically any setting, from school to the work place and even among family and friends. It can ruin lives and creates a climate of fear, frustration and alienation.
Racist attitudes and the tensions that go with them affect not just individuals but the community as a whole. There is a lot of evidence to show that communities, which accept difference, and involve everyone regardless of race, have better overall health.
Some people are racist because they feel threatened by anything that is different – the colour of someone’s skin, their facial features, accent, culture or religion. Racists often think that people who belong to a different racial minority are ‘all the same’. These stereotypes are inaccurate and offensive.
Racism is not something that anyone should have to tolerate. Anyone picked on because of their race, particularly at school or work, should report it.
