The University of Mississippi website states that the university “is committed to embracing the broadest definition of diversity, including race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religious choice, ethnicity, economic status, age and geographic affiliation. … Moreover, as an institution with a marked history of struggle with racial diversity, the University of Mississippi today realizes its unique obligation to educate and lead the state with unquestionable and unwavering commitment toward the goal of embracing all aspects of diversity.”
There are several ways I can contribute to supporting and fostering an atmosphere of diversity in the classroom and on campus. First, by embracing the desire to openness to learn, expand integrate or change our views and values based on new information; because diversity require effective communications. Second, by counteracting intolerance and racism with positive communication and speaking up when people show prejudices, and stereotyping. When one speaks up for others, it encourages classmates
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Martin Luther king stated “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." Yet, my experience has taught me that pride, ignorance and a sense of superiority prevents people from allowing themselves to get to know others as individuals by the content of their character. Choosing to attend the University of Mississippi, a predominantly white institution (PWI) located in the south I suspect that I will have to deal with and encounter unconscious bias. I have learned to assert myself, and carry on conversations how to express my cultural beliefs in a respectful manner when the opportunity presents itself. If I can dispel people’s preconceived notions about African Americans males, rural / suburban living, Christianity and law enforcement it increases their knowledge base in human behavior and social