Paradise Valley Community College; 18401 North 32nd Street; Phoenix, Arizona, 85032

Diversity
 

Diversity… What is it?

The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect.

It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies.

It is the exploration of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual.

students in a circle

“Diversity” can be thought of as all the ways in which we differ from other human beings.
  • Age

  • Nationality

  • Occupation

  • Working habits

  • Marital status

  • Cognitive style

  • Gender

  • Sexual orientation

  • Sexual identity

  • Biological

  • Psychological

  • Skin color

  • Handicaps
  • Spiritual background

  • Family heritage customs

  • Social-economic status

  • Physical appearance

  • Language and communication style

  • Geographical location

  • Physical and mental health

  • Ethnic background

  • International issues

  • Religion and religious background

  • Suburban, urban, or rural life

  • Abilities and/or disabilities

  • Learning Styles

  • Political Differences

Courtesy of Dr. B.A. Gray, 2006