Race and/or gender are not the definition of diversity. Diversity is all of us and how we are so different. To better understand diversity it can be broken down into four different dimensions and classifications. These points will help you begin to pick apart the complex topic of diversity.
Dimensions
1. Dimension may be hidden/ visible
a. Race, gender and possible age or wealth index may be a visible dimension that / would classify people into one group.
b. Intelligent, non-religious, and vegetarian are term that would identify a person to one group that would be hidden, until of course the person shared the information.
b.i. Example- Sarah is a Caucasian, female in 40’s that is athletically built, truthful and caring. The first 4 descriptive words are physical traits that people can see. The last two characteristics are something that are not seen, but after time spent with Sarah it would be known.
2. Dimensions of diversity are found within groups as well as individuals
a. Each person is different, so even when there is a group of like people there are going to be difference within the group.
a.i. Example- In a small diversity class of students there are 20 or so students that are all working towards passing the class taught by Madison. All thought the group of people all are working towards the same goal; they are all very different in their approach to passing the class. They are all students, but they are graduating at different times, they have different working styles, communication styles and are different ages.
3. Dimensions of diversity are in a constant state of flux
a. Individuals are constantly changing as well as the environment around them
a.i. Example- When Danielle B. is at school she sees herself and acts as a student, but when she is at home or with family she sees herself and acts like a mother.
4. Dimensions of diversity are not always clear cut or easily defined
a. Diversity is not the same to everyone
a.i.
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