“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.” – Maya Angelou
There are an abundant number of videos, articles, and social media posts to show how children are taught to hate.
Recently, a YouTube video that went viral showed two women proudly recording themselves trespassing and vandalizing Mosques in Arizona as they dragged their young children with them. The children were spouting the same hateful rhetoric they heard from their mothers.
It should be no surprise if these children grow up to join a racist militia or commit acts of violence against people that don’t look like them.
But rather than focus on dysfunctional members of society, it is important to highlight the many people, particularly educators who are doing incredible work to help their students learn important values such as kindness, equality, and being a global citizen.
Hate is not in anyone’s DNA, it is a learned trait, so is love and kindness. When children are exposed at an early age to diversity and they see adults model acceptance, value relationships with a variety of people and become enriched by the experiences, they are far less likely to bully or to blame their own shortcomings on others.
They are also far more likely to grow up as well adjusted adults, become world travelers, be successful leaders and have far more fulfilling relationships. Creating opportunities to meet new people, particularly those that represent minority groups is essential in nurturing a child and raising a global citizen.
Written By
Janan Najeeb
