Cultural Diversity

Cultural diversity is the modern term giving recognition and value to the multiplicity of peoples, customs, languages, heritages, and cognitive orientations woven in the rich fabric of American society. Once thought to be a melting pot, the character of the United States is now recognized as reflecting a cultural plurality, wherein particular groups maintain their distinctive character and identity with respect and pride. Cultural diversity is celebrated as a strength, because these groups contribute their knowledge perspectives, experiences, and practices toward the advancement of the nation and humankind. The value of cultural diversity is reflected in the founding of the nation as a refuge from persecution, the recognition that all are created equal, and the prohibition against discrimination reflected in the Constitution. Cultural diversity is relevant, then, to every aspect of daily life, including education and human service. A monocultural approach to professional service is not only discriminatory but can be detrimental to the client and often a waste of the resources of the professional. This entry explores the origin of cultural diversity, as well as the essential concepts that contribute to its appropriate application to the practice of educational psychology.