Civic Engagement Seminar

Concept
The topic of this module is diversity. Diversity is an exciting and sometimes controversial concept. Diversity is what makes the American way of life special, but it also brings challenges. Some see diversity as an opportunity to build and learn from differences through tolerance and respect; others view diversity as a source of conflict and would rather focus on similarities rather than differences.

Neither of these views change the fact that the demographics of America have transformed dramatically over the past fifty years and will continue to become more diverse in the next fifty years. We grew up with the image of the United States as a "melting pot," but the nation's population might be more accurately described as a "mosaic."

According to Joseph Darden, race and gender inspire a greater degree of prejudice and discrimination than other kinds of differences. Darden's finding that race and gender inspire greater prejudice is a call to action and awareness for all Americans. As citizens, we must seek to understand, tolerate, and - most importantly - respect one another.

Pre-flective Activity
List ten nouns that describe who you are (i.e., "I am a(n)________________."). Use single words only. (e.g., "white," "Japanese American," "democrat," "female.") Now, list ten nouns that describe what you feel you are not. How many of these things would be visible to someone who was meeting you for the first time? Can you judge a book by its cover?

Readings

• Eliminating Racism from the Classroom

• Making the Case for Affirmative Action in Higher Education

• I Have a Dream speech by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

• Not for Ourselves Alone: The Story of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony (the women's movement)

Optional Readings/Resources

• http://www.diversityweb.org/
• http://curry.edschool.virginia.edu/curry/centers/multicultural/papers.html

Reflective Activity
In your journal, describe what you think others see when they look at you. In this world of diversity, most likely, you do not see yourself as the one who is different. Has your perspective changed?Please respond to the following questions in your journal:

1. Why is diversity important in terms of community?

2. How can knowledge and awareness of diversity in your community make you a more effective citizen?

3. Diversity: Do you accept it or tolerate it? Explain.

After completing this module, please proceed to Module 7: Lifelong Active Citizenship.