Plura....what?

plu·ral·ism

  [ploor-uh-liz-uhm]

noun

Pluralism can be defined as the capacity to see those from different backgrounds as equals.

How many off us can say that we value people of other races, religions, ethnicities, and beliefs in the same regard as our own? Kudos if you do but I am sure that for most people this is highly unlikely. Maybe its not your fault. A pluralistic outlook on life is not a skill that we are born with. Experience tells us that people are not born with the innate ability nor wish to see others as equal members of society...but this is no excuse. The struggle  for people of different races, beliefs and religions to coexist within society is a battle that we have been faced with since the beginning of time and it has taken a huge toll on mankind. This age old problem is now boiling at the surface due widespread globalization which leads to a loss of cultural diversity. 

The daunting question: How do we maintain our cultural identities and promote equality?

According to His Highness The Aga Khan, Pluralism is a value that must be taught and it should be integrated into a students education. In His address at the Peterson Lecture His Highness says "Together, we can help reshape the very definition of a well educated global citizen. And we can begin that process by bridging the learning gap which lies at the heart of what some have called a clash of civilizations, but which I have always felt was rather a clash of ignorances. In the years ahead, should we not expect a student at in Atlanta to know as much about Jomo Kenyatta or Muhammad Ali Jinnah as a student in Mombasa or Lahore knows about Atlanta's great son, the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.?"

However it is important to remember that Pluralism is much more than accepting diversity, tolerating other cultures and knowing facts and figures. There are four key points to remember.

1. Pluralism is the energetic engagement with diversity. Relationships must be built.

2. Pluralism is actively seeking to understand. Questions must be asked.

3. Pluralism involves sticking to your commitments. Hold on to your differences, identities and culture, not in isolation but in relation to one another.

4. Dialogue is key and conversations must take place. This does not mean that everyone agrees but pluralism involves the commitment to engage in conversation. 

Our culture, beliefs, traditions, and values make us who we are. Lets work together to live in society where everyone belongs and feels equal. 

Welcome!

Blogging is something I've always wanted to do. Three of my best friends have blogs and I have always admired their ability to effortlessly write about their passion. My passion is development and travel and surely there is a lot to be written. So you might be wondering why I never gave it a try? and why now? Well, the lack of trying comes from the fear of being judged so I am thankful that my Marketing Professor finally pushed me to start my own blog and share my thought with you all- because trust me, I have a lot to share and learn.

This september I will be embarking on an 8 month field placement as a part of my undergraduate degree where I will be working with a non-for-profit organization. I am hoping to go to Vietnam, a country that I have never been to before. I am excited to experience the Vietnamese culture, make new memories, work for a cause and experience another part of life. I have no idea what is in store for me, but I know that this is going to defiantly be a life changing experiance. This may sound cliche but I really believe that I am going to 'find myself' on this journey.

I hope to share my journey with you through this blog. I promised to be open and honest. Your thoughts and comments are greatly welcomed and appreciated!

Happy Reading!