Diversity begins with understanding and knowing yourself. It is not that difficult. Knowing yourself includes recognizing and being comfortable in your ignorance. After that, you can begin to ask questions to learn about diverse cultures and peoples. These are steps anybody can take.
For example, as a black professional woman I am very comfortable in my ignorance towards the Latino community. Because I love to learn, I ask a lot of questions. Offenses may come when but at least I’m making progress.
Leaders embrace diversity, ask questions and are masters of making difficult things simple.
Great suggestion! I teach my clients to use curiosity. Whenever you meet someone, listen as if you know they are going to tell you something amazing. From the place of curiosity, you will also ask questions to come to know the person better. I bet you will always be amazed!
Thanks Marcia – I like your suggestion of listening as if they are going to tell me something amazing. I'm going to remember that!
Great! I really am comfortable in my ignorance as a white man. Thanks for the thoughts. I am curious and like to ask questions, but sometimes get embarrassed. Dallas
That's awesome Dallas. We all have areas of ignorance and asking questions is the only way to overcome it. Thanks for commenting!
Great thoughts on diversity Laurinda. I have to agree, "Leaders embrace diversity, ask questions and are masters of making difficult things simple." Love it!