Engaging Diversity
Engaging Diversity is among the ten Core Competencies you develop in CLA that employers and alumni tell us matter most.
Now more than ever, we need a world that celebrates differences and collaboratively shares ideas. Embrace different viewpoints, and you’ll not only create a stronger social fabric—you’ll help build companies that succeed.
Definition
![Engaging Diversity](/sites/cla.umn.edu/files/styles/feature_slider_image_style/public/engagingdiversity.png?itok=VdFol0DO)
Engaging Diversity cultivates awareness of one’s own identity and cultural background and that of others through an exploration of domains of diversity, which may include: race, ethnicity, country of origin, sexual orientation, ability, class, gender, age, spirituality, etc. This requires an understanding of historical and social contexts and a willingness to confront perspectives of dominant cultural narratives and ideologies, locally, nationally, or globally.
Those competent in Engaging Diversity:
- Understand how culture affects perceptions, attitudes, values, and behaviors
- Recognize how social structures and systems create and perpetuate inequities, resulting in social and economic marginalization and limited opportunities
- Commit to the fundamental principles of freedom of thought and expression, equality, respect for others, diversity, and social justice; and to participate in society as conscious global citizens
- Are able to navigate an increasingly complex and diverse world by appreciating and adopting multiple cultural perspectives or worldviews
CLA Alumni Explain Engaging Diversity