Understanding diversity

DIVERSITY – from the latin word DIVERTERE – which means to turn away, separate

• “the state or quality of being different or varied (Collins Dictionary)

• “peoples differences which may relate to their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, language culture (UNESCO)

TWO DIMENSIONS OF LODEN’S DIVERSITY WHEEL

1.PRIMARY CORE – inner circle

• stronger ones

• characteristics we were born with or established by significant experiences we had or people we interacted with

• least likely to change

Example:

age, ethnicity, gender, physical abilities/qualities, race, income, sexual orientation, class and spiritual beliefs

2. SECONDARY CORE – in the outer circle

• can change or be discarded as our life experiences

Example:

Geographical location, marital status, religious beliefs, parental status, income, education, work experience, military experience, first language, family status, and work styles

ABILITY (AND DISABILITY) AS A DIMENSION OF DIVERSITY

ABILITY – refers to the possession of the qualities required to do something; necessary skill or competene or power

DISABILITY – umbrella term for impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions (WHO)

ADA – AMERICAN DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990

  “defines a person with a disability as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity.