[font="times new roman"]Diversity is about understanding that each person is unique in some manner whether it is related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, social, age, physical abilities, religious, political, or other values. In society it is our role to accept and support these differences in a tolerant and respectful manner.
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[font="times new roman"]I have learned during high school that diversity is a necessary part of life; in school, at work and in our social lives. It wasn’t until I entered secondary school that I realized we are all different and diverse in some way. I attend a catholic high school, yet, not every student is Catholic. My school believes in diversity and accepts students of all religious backgrounds. I understand now why the school maintains this policy because they want each student to learn about different nationalities so we are all a little more tolerant of those around us who have cultural differences. The philosophy of diversity within the school environment is an element that we can use later in our lives as we become adults. [/font]
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[font="times new roman"]As for me, I was baptized Lutheran and having attended both catholic elementary and high school, I was always under the assumption that I would eventually convert to Catholicism. I studied the religion and was preparing to convert when at the last minute I had second thoughts. Why should I change? I am still the same person. Why do I need to convert to be accepted? The Lutheran religion is a part of the Finnish culture. Most Finns are Lutheran as was my Dad. I have a deep sense of pride being a Finn and by converting to Catholicism I felt I was denouncing my heritage. I backed out of the conversion and I am proud to say I am still Lutheran and still attending parochial school. I believe those around me respect my decision and I developed a deep sense of self respect for standing up for my beliefs. [/font]
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[font="times new roman"]This event in my life has made me realize that no matter what the differences are each person is unique in their own way. It has made me stronger and more tolerant of those around me. I am more aware of my schools philosophy on diversity and working part-time after school, I can see how effective diversity is in the workplace. Supporting diversity to accept the differences of others is an education in itself and it is the differences of each person that add to diversity and the distinctive qualities that make up the community. The more we encourage diversity the better we will be since diversity plays a big role in the world around us. [/font]
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