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Policy Issues and Cultural Diversity

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Policy Issues and Cultural Diversity
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Policy Issues and Cultural Diversity Culture in lay man’s language means people’s way of life (King & Baxter, 2005). Culture encompasses experiences that people share, the shared values and their general view of the world (Barker, 2004).Cultural diversity, on the other hand, means the existence of a variety of cultures in the world today. The aspect of cultural diversity encompasses respect that different cultures accord to each other (Barker, 2004). Culture difference, therefore, needs to be guided because the rights of all, particularly those of the underserved must be assured (Guirdham, 2009). The Cultural policy comes in to play this role of guaranteeing protection, equality, and social justice. In this paper, my subject of analysis is cultural policy and cultural diversity; I have also enumerated the need for cultural policy (Guirdham, 2009). The Cultural policy refers to the rules or only regulations that guide and govern all activities that correlate with culture and arts (Guirdham, 2009). It is an area in public policy formulation that promotes cultural diversity, fosters cultural processes. While introducing legal frameworks and building of institutions that are committed to the promotion of overall accessibility of culture and cultural diversity (Barker, 2004). Examples of state promoted cultural policies are; sponsoring of arts and culture exhibitions by the state.Another is organization of free cultural nights by the state with an aim of governing cultural diversity and promoting cultural integration (King & Baxter, 2005) We need a cultural policy to promote cultural heritage (Guirdham, 2009). The state should be in the forefront to provide guidance and inspire cultural policies. The Cultural Policy offers a platform for everyone to participate in cultural programs and experience culture (Barker, 2004). Cultural policy is also needed to promote innovation and creative abilities, to promote arts and quality and accessibility of information, particularly that which is related to cultural diversity (Barker, 2004). The greatest role of cultural policy is to govern and promote dynamic cultural heritage that is cognizant of diversity and creativity (Guirdham, 2009). The Cultural policy also supports and defends the rights the minors and the youth to culture. The Cultural policy also goes further to enhance international cooperation and cultural exchanges (Barker, 2004). Cultural policy is manifest in freedom of expression and integration (Guirdham, 2009). To achieve this goal, much is required. First, the government must step in to provide support of cultural exchange programs such as trade, arts, and exhibition. The government or rather the state needs to defend people’s right to freedom of expression and ensure accessibility of information, especially that which is related to cultural diversity (Barker, 2004). The existing legal frameworks that govern and promote public policy and culture should be strengthened and protected by the state. Current cultural systems are cognizant of the dynamism of culture; therefore, they enhance international relations integration and cultural exchange programs (Guirdham, 2009). In furthering the achievement of cultural policy goals, appropriate measures and frameworks have been put to enhance social interactions and innovative thinking in the society. In conclusion, cultural policy promotes strengthening and preservation of a people’s culture (Guirdham, 2009). A strong cultural life enhances the development of arts and national heritage as well. Prerequisites for a strong cultural policy framework involve promotion of freedoms of opinion and expression (King & Baxter, 2005). Strengthening of public policy making institutions and bridging of the gap between artistic quality and commercial viability is, however, the key to promoting cultural policies (Barker, 2004).
References
Barker, C. (2004). The power of culture: Driving today's organization. Sydney: McGraw-Hill.
Guirdham, M. (2009). Culture and business in Asia. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
King, P. M., & Baxter Magolda, M. B. (2005). A developmental model of intercultural maturity. Journal of college student development, 46(6), 571–592.

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