As a household term, DEI has become a staple in modern conversations. But what did it mean just a year ago? I, like many others, was unfamiliar with the concept until recently.
My own experience as a teacher reinforced this notion. When I started my career, I noticed a significant salary gap between me and a male colleague who had a family to support. This sparked an uncomfortable conversation that made me realize how far we’ve come in recognizing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Growing up, I was taught traditional values that emphasized women’s roles and limitations. However, attending church with two fabulous female pastors showed me that times have changed. My upbringing also took place in a relatively safe city, Tulsa, where my family grew up. Yet, the city witnessed one of the most violent racial explosions in history – the Tulsa Race Massacre. This event left a lasting impact on our community, and its effects are still felt today.
When I visited Greenwood, the site of the massacre, with my siblings, it was heartbreaking to acknowledge our collective ignorance about this tragedy. It served as a poignant reminder that our education system must prioritize teaching empathy and inclusivity.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs aim to educate younger generations about the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect. By acknowledging our past mistakes and actively working towards change, we can raise students who are equipped to navigate complex societal issues.
It’s essential for white adults to confront their own biases and experiences before embracing DEI initiatives. Women must also acknowledge their roles in perpetuating or challenging traditional norms. If we genuinely follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized loving our neighbors as ourselves, then we must strive for equality and fairness.
DEI is not a dirty word; it’s a necessary step towards creating a more inclusive society. By implementing awareness programs like DEI, we can work towards offering equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of their background or identity.
Source: https://www.mississippifreepress.org/opinion-without-dei-history-will-repeat-itself