Personal Identity And Global Citizenship

Reflecting on Personal Identity and Global Citizenship Cindi Payne GEN 499 General Education Instructor: Gloria-Yvonne Williams April 24, 2016 Reflecting on Personal Identity and Global Citizenship “Global citizenship is defined as awareness, caring, and embracing cultural diversity while promoting social justice and sustainability, coupled with a sense of responsibility to act” (Reysen, & Katzarska-Miller, 2013). Global citizenship encourages self-admiration and admiration for all citizens throughout the world regardless of race, ethnicity and cultural background. It creates an interconnection between individuals that challenges them to critically analyze what is best for the world, not just their country or themselves. For that reason,
However, I never thought of myself as racist either. I didn’t have an aversion to anyone that was of different culture, race or skin color. At 24 years old I moved to San Diego and experienced for the first time every ethnicity that exists. Over the past 24 years of living in San Diego I have developed an understanding and interest in many cultures, which has contributed to my intergroup understanding. Having a diverse group of friends has taught me about diversity and the differences of everyone’s culture. I have learned that everyone tries to work together to create a better world. There are many judgments that are presented by those who do not value diversity and discriminate against others. “Valuing diversity is defined as an interest in and appreciation for the diverse cultures of the world” (Reysen, & Katzarska-Miller, 2013). With having many culturally different friends, I have learned that we are all different in our own ways. Here at Ashford, the classroom is filled with diversity and has taught me that we all have our own opinions and view the world in different ways. Having a diverse classroom allows us to learn more from the class than just the
A general education course I took, Contemporary Environmental Issues, taught me that the earth’s survival is dependent on everyone. There is no specific country, state, or race that can save the planet, we as humans must work together in saving our environment. “The climate will continue to change for decades as a result of past human activities, but scientists say that the worst impacts can still be avoided if action is taken soon.” (Turk & Bensel, 2011). “Intergroup helping is defined as aid to others outside one’s group, and is enacted through behaviors such as donating to charity, volunteering locally, and working with transnational organizations to help others globally” (Reysen, & Katzarska-Miller, 2013). I took a trip to an orphanage in Mexico to deliver Christmas presents and food as part of a church organization. It was heartbreaking to see these children living in such a poor environment. However, they were happy and well fed thanks to the church group. As I held a six month old baby in my arms I realized that there were more important things in life than money. These children had