Final Project
Shannon Smith
August 1, 2014
ETH/125
Allison Christine

Throughout this course I have learned a great deal about diversity and the importance it plays in society. Diversity is defined by dictionary.com as: The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies. It is the exploration of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual. I was raised that this is the way that life is supposed to be. We are to respect everyone, and treat them as we would want to be treated—no matter the differences we have! Valuing diversity recognizes differences between people and acknowledges that these differences are a valued asset. Multicultural education is an important component of valuing diversity. It respects diversity while teaching all children and youth to become effective and participating members of a democracy. It respects individuality while promoting respect for others. It emphasizes the contributions of the various groups that make up the population of the world. It emphasizes the importance of people sharing their stories and learning from the stories of others. It acknowledges that different children have different learning styles. This is why diversity is so important in the United States, due to the many cultures that are in our country. We need to know about each culture and respect it as we do our own. It is our job as parents to teach this value of diversity to our children, and make sure that they respect it as well. The best way to teach the value of diversity is to lead by example. During our “Who Am I” presentation I did learn more about my culture history, and the different ethnic groups that make up my race. I really enjoyed that project, not only because I learned a great deal about my race and our traditions, but I also learned more about other’s cultures and traditions. I learned a lot of interesting traditions and beliefs of many different cultures. According to the National Geographic they believe that by 2050, the United States will be one giant amalgamated mega-race. The say this is based on the statistics of the interracial relationships that are on the rise. CNN claims that "the majority in the United States will become nonwhite by 2050." The 2010 census has stirred up much controversy in terms of race relations and how we as Americans choose to identify ourselves. This chart below, which I came across, is the main reason that I believe that we will eventually be one giant amalgamated mega-race. I believe in statistics and facts, because they do not lie.

https://www.google.com/search?q=what+will+the+united+states+population+look+like+in+2050&espv=2&tbm=isch&imgil=AGmt0rdnzujVNM%253 The United States has faced many challenges over the course of history due to the “melting pot” of cultures that make up our country. Challenges the US faces due to its diversity of its population include deep inbred racism and intolerance toward others and the feeling of white supremacy. Another problem is dealing with immigrants, gay rights, transgender rights, and religious freedoms. The United States also has endured many riots, protests, monitoring of the supremacists, and has made laws to help in some areas. In my opinion, some people are always going to need someone to put down, because they are not happy with themselves. I see this a great deal in two of my cousins. They try to put you down intentionally, and I know that they do it to make themselves feel