The Ongoing Debate: Is Diversity a Core American Value?
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Chapter 1: The Current Landscape of Diversity in Education
As we observe the closure of diversity offices across various colleges and universities nationwide, it prompts a reflection on the implications of this trend. For instance, the University of Florida recently announced the elimination of twenty-eight positions related to diversity initiatives. Concurrently, Louisiana State University has rebranded its Inclusion office, removing the term "diversity" from its online presence. In Mississippi, several public universities have either restructured or completely eliminated their diversity offices. Auburn University in Alabama also shut down its Office of Inclusion and Diversity as of August 15. These instances represent just a portion of a larger movement, as many institutions are either scaling back or planning to abolish diversity programs in the near future. There is significant pressure on administrators to abandon diversity efforts in favor of colorblind policies, which do little to address the deep-seated racial disparities that persist beneath the surface.
The ongoing "culture war" in America can be partly attributed to the lack of a shared value system. According to Rothwell et al. (2015), societies devoid of a cohesive cultural belief may struggle to agree on what constitutes ethical behavior. If diversity were genuinely a shared American value, there would likely be broader support for its related policies. Currently, however, the divide between proponents and opponents of diversity initiatives is substantial—an issue that feels too entrenched to resolve easily. Historical examples, such as the debates surrounding chattel slavery, illustrate this point; the conflict between northern and southern states ultimately led to the Civil War. For progress to occur, the nation must find common ground around shared values, as it did during the period of Reconstruction following the abolition of slavery. James Baldwin poignantly remarked, “We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist.”
Had diversity been recognized as a core value from the outset, government policies would likely reflect that commitment. However, the evidence suggests otherwise. Notably, the term "diversity" does not appear in the U.S. Constitution. The phrase "E pluribus unum," meaning "out of many, one," which is featured on the Great Seal of the United States, was intended to symbolize unity among the original British Thirteen Colonies, not to endorse multi-ethnic or racial unity. The founding fathers may have aimed to protect diversity of thought through free speech rights, but these protections primarily benefited White, landowning men. Despite receiving over 130,000 petitions to abolish slavery in the 1830s, Congress imposed a "gag rule" that silenced anti-slavery discussions. Had diversity been valued in the way contemporary scholars define it, there would have been an eagerness to engage with these petitions rather than suppress them.
Taking a neutral stance on diversity can inadvertently create an environment where racial injustices are overlooked in the name of unity. Genuine unity should not silence the voices of Black individuals or other marginalized groups. Furthermore, the evidence regarding whether diversity is valued in contemporary America remains conflicting. For example, in the summer of 2021, President Joe Biden signed an executive order aimed at enhancing the Federal workforce by prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. This action reversed a prior order from former President Donald Trump that prohibited diversity training. The treatment of diversity as an American value may depend on the outcome of the next election, with potential implications for Black individuals and racial minorities. Executive Order 13985 outlined a strategy to "cultivate a workforce that reflects the full diversity of the Nation," asserting that the federal government should set an example for the private sector. This perspective, however, remains contentious among conservatives. The issue of diversity continues to be tossed back and forth, with no clear resolution in sight.
Chapter 2: Historical Context and Modern Implications
America has long been characterized by its diversity, with various racial and ethnic groups contributing unique cultural traditions. Yet, historical context reveals that these groups have often faced unequal treatment and limited access to opportunities. The systematic oppression of marginalized communities, particularly Indigenous and Black populations, has led to a racial hierarchy that necessitates proactive diversity efforts. For far too long, exclusionary policies have entrenched disparities that can only be addressed through inclusive strategies. Despite this, many Americans remain ambivalent about whether diversity should be embraced as a shared value, creating an environment where inequalities can flourish.
Diversity has its roots in the early days of American society, but the uneven treatment of various racial groups has undermined any superficial sense of unity. The multiracial identity of the nation does not fully capture the complexities of its history. The institution of slavery eroded the diversity present on southern plantations, while the segregation enforced during the Jim Crow era deprived inner cities of equal opportunities for home ownership and business investment. During the civil rights movement, diversity was tolerated but never fully appreciated as a positive societal force. The acceptance of diversity in America has been far from complete, leaving it a contentious topic. As a nation, we are engaged in a significant debate about the values that will define us moving forward. Whether diversity will be seen as a valuable asset or a harmful force remains unresolved, but it is crucial for each of us to play our part in this ongoing dialogue.
The first video, "The Value of Diversity During Uncertain Times," explores the essential role diversity plays in fostering resilience and understanding in society.
The second video, "It's (past) time to appreciate cultural diversity | Hayley Yeates | TED Institute," emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing cultural diversity as a fundamental aspect of our shared humanity.