Embracing Diversity

“One cannot expect positive results from an educational or political action program which fails to respect the particular view of the world held by the people. Such a program constitutes cultural invasion, good intentions notwithstanding.” – Paulo Freire

One of my Favourite things about this quote is how it reveals the importance of having diversity in education, which is something that has not been included or considered in past classrooms and curriculums, but is making an appearance in our school systems more and more each day.

Evidently, traditionally school curriculums and lessons in North America have been taught and designed through a narrow minded Western/European perspective, which has been helpful in allowing those with a European background to succeed, but has drastically limited those from other backgrounds and cultures from reaching their full potential and receiving a valuable education. Systems like this are exactly what Freire is referring to when he says we can not expect positive results from these programs. Because of the restricted knowledge and beliefs given in classrooms, and the need for “standardized testing,” not all students are set up with the tools they need to succeed, and procedures like these limit them from even being given a fair chance.

This quote really puts an emphasis on the huge role teachers need to take on in order to insure they have an open classroom that incorporates all needs of each individual students and welcomes diversity. Different cultural backgrounds should be celebrated, and no student should be at a disadvantage in our education system for coming from or being influenced by different places around the world.

For the students, this quote is extremely inspirational! Finally the time to live in a diverse culture and environment has been made possible, and the opportunities shared with the students through the education system will allow for everyone to succeed and gain positive experiences and results throughout their experience.