“We live now in a global village and we are in one single family. It’s our responsibility to bring friendship and love from all different places around the world and to live together in peace." --Jackie Chan (Chinese Actor, Philanthropist, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Today, we hear the words Cultural diversity in the work place, in communities, in places of worship. Statistics tell us that the balance of ethnicity and culture is changing in the world, and we shall be living in a very different socio-ethnic place in another 10 years. The secret to a peaceful existence and a productive work environment is to embrace the effects of cultural diversity, and welcome the creativity it brings.
The foundation for an inclusive culture must embrace certain fundamental understandings.
We need to recognize that Laws are different around the world;
Laws govern and /or dictate behaviors between people.
Our Beliefs are opinions and convictions that act as a filter through which we see the world.
Religious beliefs and customs, together with cultural morals create boundaries for our standards of behavior. These become the boundaries of what is, and what is not acceptable. Together they form a Compass for complex decision making.
By learning about cultural diversity, we develop knowledge and understanding of different groups of people, helping us to enrich our lives and break down barriers of prejudice and suspicion.
“Cultural differences should not separate us from each other, but rather cultural diversity brings a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity.” -- Robert Alan (American writer, artist and social activist; 1922-1978)
In the preface to my Poetry book, The Moon of Compassion I explain that my Poems are designed to raise awareness, and focus on issues that must change in order to achieve a free and enlightened world.
My hope is that by reading these simple poems, that buck against socially and culturally intense subjects , I might spark discussion and inspire thought. Despite emphasis on cultural awareness and sensitivity in the Western world, Women are still under-empowered, and under-valued . In many cultures they are oppressed and abuse is rife. In my audio book, the combination of visual illustrations and the option to listen to my own rendition, offers a different perspective and use for poetry in the field of social studies and education.
Below is a link to my audio/visual poetry book, published by iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-moon-of-compassion/id892598396?mt=11
Today, we hear the words Cultural diversity in the work place, in communities, in places of worship. Statistics tell us that the balance of ethnicity and culture is changing in the world, and we shall be living in a very different socio-ethnic place in another 10 years. The secret to a peaceful existence and a productive work environment is to embrace the effects of cultural diversity, and welcome the creativity it brings.
The foundation for an inclusive culture must embrace certain fundamental understandings.
We need to recognize that Laws are different around the world;
Laws govern and /or dictate behaviors between people.
Our Beliefs are opinions and convictions that act as a filter through which we see the world.
Religious beliefs and customs, together with cultural morals create boundaries for our standards of behavior. These become the boundaries of what is, and what is not acceptable. Together they form a Compass for complex decision making.
By learning about cultural diversity, we develop knowledge and understanding of different groups of people, helping us to enrich our lives and break down barriers of prejudice and suspicion.
“Cultural differences should not separate us from each other, but rather cultural diversity brings a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity.” -- Robert Alan (American writer, artist and social activist; 1922-1978)
In the preface to my Poetry book, The Moon of Compassion I explain that my Poems are designed to raise awareness, and focus on issues that must change in order to achieve a free and enlightened world.
My hope is that by reading these simple poems, that buck against socially and culturally intense subjects , I might spark discussion and inspire thought. Despite emphasis on cultural awareness and sensitivity in the Western world, Women are still under-empowered, and under-valued . In many cultures they are oppressed and abuse is rife. In my audio book, the combination of visual illustrations and the option to listen to my own rendition, offers a different perspective and use for poetry in the field of social studies and education.
Below is a link to my audio/visual poetry book, published by iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-moon-of-compassion/id892598396?mt=11
Ava L Mccall is a teacher and Educator committed to raising issues of racial, economic, and gender equality. She uses poetry in Social Studies Classes to Teach about Cultural Diversity and Social Justice
She says,
“As a teacher educator, I find poetry to be a powerful resource in social studies methods classes. When preparing teachers for elementary and middle school levels, I find that poetry can often capture their attention and address controversial issues in a meaningful, less-threatening manner. “
She goes on to say that Poets “frequently share their personal experiences with cultural diversity, racism, sexism, or class-ism. Poems often affirm women and cultural groups that are less valued in our society, praise individuals who resisted oppression, or portray the harm resulting from prejudicial comments or discriminatory actions.”
She says that after a decade of using poetry as a social studies resource, she remains impressed by the power of poetry to vividly communicate concepts that otherwise could be dry and uninspiring in the classroom.
“Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”
--John Hume (Irish Politician, 1998 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, 1999
Charles Bennafield - is a pastor and poet located in Georgia. He has written this wonderfully simple , yet evocative and learned poem about diversity, which has become a benchmark poem teaching acceptance and inclusion.
I am Diversity, by Charles Bennafield.
I Am Diversity, Please Include Me
I ‘m present in every place you go
Depending on your lens I’m friend or foe
I’m a force to be reckoned with
Like the winds of change I move. I’m swift.
I’m present when two or more are together
If embraced I can make the good even better.
I’m not limited to age, gender, or race.
I’m invisible at times and yet all over the place.
Don’t exclude me due to a lack of knowledge
Welcome me like the recruit fresh out of college.
Let me take my seat at the table
Even though I may be differently able
My experience, my passion the authentic me
can help add value for your company.
Learn about me; improve my under-representation
And I can provide a competitive edge to your entire nation.
I exclude no one I am strengthened by all
My name is Diversity and yes I stand tall.
Recognize me and keep me in the mix
Together there’s no problem that we can’t fix.
I am your best hope towards true innovation
And to many, I reflect hope and inspiration.
Your lives and companies will continue to change
Thus the need for Diversity and Inclusion will also remain.
Do all that you can to truly embrace me
And experience life’s fullness totally
I’m the thought lurking behind the unfamiliar face
I’m the ingenuity that helps your team win the race.
I’m the solution that came from the odd question that was asked.
I stand out in the crowd when I, Diversity, am allowed to be unmasked.
I’m diversity embrace me and we’ll journey far.
I’m Diversity include me and we will reach the shining star.
Coupled with Inclusion our lights burn longer
Together we are smarter, better and stronger
I am Diversity
Yes, that’s me
Charles Bennafield
Written 3/8/2012 for The Conference Board Diversity Boot Camp Spring 2012 team
She says,
“As a teacher educator, I find poetry to be a powerful resource in social studies methods classes. When preparing teachers for elementary and middle school levels, I find that poetry can often capture their attention and address controversial issues in a meaningful, less-threatening manner. “
She goes on to say that Poets “frequently share their personal experiences with cultural diversity, racism, sexism, or class-ism. Poems often affirm women and cultural groups that are less valued in our society, praise individuals who resisted oppression, or portray the harm resulting from prejudicial comments or discriminatory actions.”
She says that after a decade of using poetry as a social studies resource, she remains impressed by the power of poetry to vividly communicate concepts that otherwise could be dry and uninspiring in the classroom.
“Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”
--John Hume (Irish Politician, 1998 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, 1999
Charles Bennafield - is a pastor and poet located in Georgia. He has written this wonderfully simple , yet evocative and learned poem about diversity, which has become a benchmark poem teaching acceptance and inclusion.
I am Diversity, by Charles Bennafield.
I Am Diversity, Please Include Me
I ‘m present in every place you go
Depending on your lens I’m friend or foe
I’m a force to be reckoned with
Like the winds of change I move. I’m swift.
I’m present when two or more are together
If embraced I can make the good even better.
I’m not limited to age, gender, or race.
I’m invisible at times and yet all over the place.
Don’t exclude me due to a lack of knowledge
Welcome me like the recruit fresh out of college.
Let me take my seat at the table
Even though I may be differently able
My experience, my passion the authentic me
can help add value for your company.
Learn about me; improve my under-representation
And I can provide a competitive edge to your entire nation.
I exclude no one I am strengthened by all
My name is Diversity and yes I stand tall.
Recognize me and keep me in the mix
Together there’s no problem that we can’t fix.
I am your best hope towards true innovation
And to many, I reflect hope and inspiration.
Your lives and companies will continue to change
Thus the need for Diversity and Inclusion will also remain.
Do all that you can to truly embrace me
And experience life’s fullness totally
I’m the thought lurking behind the unfamiliar face
I’m the ingenuity that helps your team win the race.
I’m the solution that came from the odd question that was asked.
I stand out in the crowd when I, Diversity, am allowed to be unmasked.
I’m diversity embrace me and we’ll journey far.
I’m Diversity include me and we will reach the shining star.
Coupled with Inclusion our lights burn longer
Together we are smarter, better and stronger
I am Diversity
Yes, that’s me
Charles Bennafield
Written 3/8/2012 for The Conference Board Diversity Boot Camp Spring 2012 team
Mixed medium art by Vita Pascone, Take these things from me. http://Vitalifestyledesign.com
POEM ON: AFRICAN CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND TOLERANCE
By Sir Urom Azubike Urom
In Africa, we are all alike
Like each flake of snow, floating through the sky
We are all unique, we are all alike
Take a look around, you will see its true
You are a lot like me, I am a lot like you
Everybody has eyes, they come in different shapes
Some are brown, some are blue, some are grey
Everybody has skin, it comes in many shades
It may be dark, it may be light or in between
Everybody lives, everybody dreams
Everybody is born and changes through the years
We can laugh and cry, and share our hopes and fears
We all have a body, any size will do
It may be thick, it may be thin, it could be short or tall
We all have a heart, let it beat with pride
A common bond goes on and on, we are people, one and all
Like each flake of snow, floating through the sky
We are all unique, in Africa we are all alike
Take a look around, you will see its true
You are a lot like me, I am a lot like you
I am Africa. This is my story,
POEM ON: AFRICAN CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND TOLERANCE
By Sir Urom Azubike Urom
In Africa, we are all alike
Like each flake of snow, floating through the sky
We are all unique, we are all alike
Take a look around, you will see its true
You are a lot like me, I am a lot like you
Everybody has eyes, they come in different shapes
Some are brown, some are blue, some are grey
Everybody has skin, it comes in many shades
It may be dark, it may be light or in between
Everybody lives, everybody dreams
Everybody is born and changes through the years
We can laugh and cry, and share our hopes and fears
We all have a body, any size will do
It may be thick, it may be thin, it could be short or tall
We all have a heart, let it beat with pride
A common bond goes on and on, we are people, one and all
Like each flake of snow, floating through the sky
We are all unique, in Africa we are all alike
Take a look around, you will see its true
You are a lot like me, I am a lot like you
I am Africa. This is my story,
As UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova declared, “culture helps us rise above conflicts by elucidating the factors that bring us together. It boosts the creativity that drives innovation and development”
Rumi was a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, Theologian, and Sufi mystic.
Rumi's influence transcends national borders and ethnic divisions and embraces cultural diversity.
Iranians, Turks, Greeks, Pashtuns and other central Muslims of South Asia have embraced his spiritual legacy for the past seven centuries. His poems have been translated into many of the world's languages. Rumi has been described as the "most popular poet" and the "best selling poet" in the United States, among Muslims.
It is said that even in the 13th Century, Rumi was a pioneer of inclusion, and consciously made his poetry a bridge between cultures and religions. He includes everyone in his embrace.
The following is one of his most famous poems, in which he celebrates how we can meet in both FRIENDSHIP and sing ONE SONG.
ONE SONG
Every war and every conflict between human beings
has happened because of some disagreement about names.
It is such an unnecessary foolishness,
because just beyond the arguing
there is a long table of companionship
set and waiting for us to sit down.
What is praised is one, so the praise is one too,
many jugs being poured into a huge basin.
All religions, all this singing, one song.
The differences are just illusion and vanity.
Sunlight looks a little different on this wall
than it does on that wall
and a lot different on this other one,
but it is still one light.
We have borrowed these clothes,
these time-and-space personalities,
from a light, and when we praise,
we are pouring them back in.
Rumi 13th Century poem
Rumi's influence transcends national borders and ethnic divisions and embraces cultural diversity.
Iranians, Turks, Greeks, Pashtuns and other central Muslims of South Asia have embraced his spiritual legacy for the past seven centuries. His poems have been translated into many of the world's languages. Rumi has been described as the "most popular poet" and the "best selling poet" in the United States, among Muslims.
It is said that even in the 13th Century, Rumi was a pioneer of inclusion, and consciously made his poetry a bridge between cultures and religions. He includes everyone in his embrace.
The following is one of his most famous poems, in which he celebrates how we can meet in both FRIENDSHIP and sing ONE SONG.
ONE SONG
Every war and every conflict between human beings
has happened because of some disagreement about names.
It is such an unnecessary foolishness,
because just beyond the arguing
there is a long table of companionship
set and waiting for us to sit down.
What is praised is one, so the praise is one too,
many jugs being poured into a huge basin.
All religions, all this singing, one song.
The differences are just illusion and vanity.
Sunlight looks a little different on this wall
than it does on that wall
and a lot different on this other one,
but it is still one light.
We have borrowed these clothes,
these time-and-space personalities,
from a light, and when we praise,
we are pouring them back in.
Rumi 13th Century poem
In conclusion, although this subject is large enough to fill a Thesis, I will quote Mahnaz Afkami
(Iranian-American Human rights activist)
“We have the ability to achieve, if we master the necessary goodwill, a common global society blessed with a shared culture of peace that is nourished by the ethnic, national and local diversities that enrich our lives.”
Mahnaz Afkhami
Have a culturally diverse weekend:)
(Iranian-American Human rights activist)
“We have the ability to achieve, if we master the necessary goodwill, a common global society blessed with a shared culture of peace that is nourished by the ethnic, national and local diversities that enrich our lives.”
Mahnaz Afkhami
Have a culturally diverse weekend:)
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