Diversity

Topic 5 Diversity.

3/2/2024

Now that we have studied diversity and explored identity in the U.S., you may have had some time to think about how these concepts are shaped in the U.S. You have watched videos about identity and diversity: Current Issues Facing Muslim Americans and possibly The American Dream from Asian Students’ Perspectives. You also watched the TED talk The Danger of a Single Story, about cultural identity. Some questions you can ask yourself: What do you think of the diversity in the U.S.? Is your country similar in its journey with diversity? What is your perception of the gifts and challenges of a diverse nation? In your responses, please refer to at least two of the videos above and two of your classmates’ presentations.

 

Reflecting on the concept of diversity and identity in the United States of America as a Ghanaian, I am surprised and overwhelmed by the rich culture, race, and background identities that make America unique. After reading the book by Althen “The American Ways, listening to my classmates’ presentations, and watching the videos about identity and diversity, I will describe America as a country of a kaleidoscope of rich and valued experiences and this is because, it is a mosaic of cultures, languages, and histories. It is a place where people from all corners of the globe converge, bringing with them their unique perspectives, traditions, and dreams. For example, there was a mass migration of Thais to America and a chain migration of the Chaldean to America. The diversity in America is palpable—from the Amish, Asian, and Muslim to specific foods, songs, and values and it is a nation where the richness lies not only in its landscapes but also in the stories etched into the hearts of its people.

In the video and slides “Current Issues Facing Muslim Americans,” I gained insights into the struggles and resilience of Muslim communities navigating their identities in a post-9/11 world. The challenges they face—stereotyping, discrimination, and the constant need to prove their loyalty—are poignant reminders of the complexities of being both American and Muslim. Yet, amidst adversity, there is a spirit of unity and determination. Muslim Americans contribute significantly to the fabric of this nation, whether as doctors, engineers, artists, or activists. Their stories remind me that diversity is not merely about tolerance; it is about celebrating the myriad ways we express our humanity. These same experiences can be seen with the Thai Americans who had three stages of immigration to the USA and have been labeled as refugees rather than immigrants and sometimes referred to as Koreans, Vietnamese, or Chinese Americans.

 

In Ghana, our journey with diversity has its own contours. Our history bears the scars of colonialism, slavery, and tribal conflicts. We are a nation of over 100 ethnic groups with distinct languages, customs, and beliefs. Our diversity is not always harmonious; it has been tested by political strife and economic disparities. Yet, like the U.S., we find strength in our differences. Our kente cloth, vibrant festivals, and communal spirit bind us together. We celebrate our unity in diversity during events like Homowo (celebrated by the Ewe ethnic group), Odwira (celebrated by the Fante ethnic group), and Adae Kese (celebrated by my ethnic group called the Ashantis), In these festivals, where we honor our ancestors, perform traditional dance, cook traditional dishes, and renew our commitment to shared progress. So, when we embrace different perspectives, we expand our horizons. Ghana’s music draws from highlife, hiplife, and gospel; our literature echoes the voices of Ama Ata Aidoo, Ayi Kwei Armah, and Kwame Nkrumah. Similarly, the U.S. thrives on its fusion of cultures—jazz, hip-hop, Hollywood, and Silicon Valley—all products of diverse minds collaborating. Our shared humanity transcends borders, and our collective creativity knows no bounds.

Below are some pictures of Kente cloth, traditional festivals and traditional foods in Ghana from different ethnic groups.

 

 

However, diversity also presents challenges. Stereotypes persist, perpetuating single stories. Just as Adichie warned, reducing any group to a single narrative erases their complexity. I believe that embracing diversity requires us to recognize and celebrate the multiplicity of voices and experiences within our communities. It requires us to challenge our preconceptions and biases and to actively seek out diverse perspectives to gain a more nuanced understanding of the world. In both Ghana and the U.S., we must dismantle these narratives. Education is our ally—the antidote to ignorance. By learning about one another, we dispel myths and build bridges.

 

To conclude, diversity is not a static state; it is a dynamic dance of cultures, languages, and dreams. As a Ghanaian, I celebrate the U.S.’s kaleidoscope of identities while recognizing that our journey toward understanding and unity continues.