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Being Diversity-Conscious

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Being Diversity-Conscious

COMM/315

Being Diversity-Conscious
The term diversity refers to how people are different, and these differences are all inclusive: no two individuals are alike. The adjective conscious, as related to being diversity-conscious, refers to being keenly aware and appreciative of something’s importance (Bing Dictionary, 2009). Thus, being diversity-conscious could be described as, an individual’s keen awareness and appreciation of all of the differences of others.
In society today, being different is not always considered to be a good trait. Although some differences are beyond an individual’s control, such as skin or eye color, place of birth, or height, many other differences are intentional and designed to make a statement. For instance, tattoos, body piercings, and the way a person dresses are totally under that individual’s control. Some people go to great lengths to make a statement or to be perceived as different; other people are, simply, different. Being diversity-conscious requires humanity to value these differences, which does not mean agree with.
In 1971, the rock band, Five Man Electric Band, wrote the song Signs. The song was about a hippie who read a sign that stated long-haired, freaky people need not apply. In response, the hippie tucked his long-hair under his cap, went in, and applied for the job. After being told he looked like a fine upstanding young man, the hippie was hired: The hippie took of his cap and said, “Imagine that, huh, me working for you!” (Metro lyrics, 2011, para. 2). Obviously, the person who hired the hippie was not being diversity conscious. Too often, people judge others based solely on appearance, or by their personal preconceived notions, or prejudices.
Being diversity-conscious should be thought of as a state of mind; a mental state where an individual perceives, embraces, and accepts other people’s differences. The most challenging aspect, is accepting the fact that the list of differences continues to grow exponentially.

References
Bing Dictionary. (2009). Encarta world English dictionary. Retrieved from http://www.bing.com/Dictionary/search?q=define+conscious&qpvt=define+conscious&FORM=DTPDIA
Metro lyrics. (2011). Signs by five man electrical band. Retrieved from http://www.metrolyrics.com/signs-lyrics-five-man-electrical-band.html

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