This blog post reflects one individual’s perspective (my own) on the topic of promoting inclusivity and awareness in society. It presents a critical examination of current approaches to celebrating diversity and addressing social issues, offering suggestions for a more unified and inclusive approach. In exploring the idea of consolidating awareness days under broad themes such as Love, Acceptance, and Inclusiveness, I question the effectiveness of singling out specific minority groups and advocates for a more holistic celebration of humanity’s diversity. Through this lens, I’m hoping to encourage you, readers, to consider alternative perspectives and engage in constructive dialogue surrounding these complex issues.

Wrong approach

I believe our approach to fostering awareness is counterproductive. While the intentions are noble, the methods employed are flawed. Rather than uniting people, the current approach exacerbates divisions by elevating one group over another. Why should being black, Native American, gay, or part of any minority group be a source of “pride”? I’m not suggesting that individuals shouldn’t take pride in their identities; quite the opposite. But why should we celebrate this “pride”?

Allow me to share my perspective as a French Canadian born in Quebec. I take pride in my Québécois culture and understand the struggle of preserving heritage in a world that may not fully embrace it. Yes, I’ve faced harassment because of my background, but I refuse to see myself as a victim. Why? Because I attribute the source of intolerance to the ignorance of others. If someone fails to recognize the worth of a person irrespective of religion, sexual orientation, race, or origin, it’s their failing, not mine.

Consider the concept of Gay Pride, for instance. They argue that sexual orientation is inherent, something we’re born with, much like my height or eye colour. I didn’t consciously choose to be heterosexual; it’s simply who I am. So why should I take pride in it? Similarly, being Caucasian isn’t an achievement; it’s a circumstance of birth. Why the urge to “celebrate” aspects of ourselves that aren’t accomplishments?

Another prevalent demand today is for respect. In a culture of entitlement, some believe they’re entitled to respect simply for being who they are, such as demanding respect because of their transgender identity. But respect isn’t a given; it’s earned through actions and treatment of others, not because of how one chooses to present themselves.

We must question our objectives. As it stands, our methods tend to promote rather than raise awareness.

Let me be clear; I’m not endorsing or supporting extremist ideologies. However, it’s worth pondering why figures like Donald Trump garner such fervent support. Presently, any form of support seems to elevate a particular group above the majority, fuelling resentment among those who feel marginalized, such as white, heterosexual, Christian males.

This isn’t to overlook the existence of extremists, but we’re witnessing a resurgence of frustration among white individuals who feel their voices have been silenced for too long.

Politics

In Canada, Justin Trudeau has been criticized for going too far to accommodate minorities. He initiated changes to the National Anthem and allowed religious practices of immigrants to supersede Canadian laws, all seemingly at the expense of long-standing Canadian values.

In contrast, Australia’s approach appears more balanced. While they also embrace immigration like Canada, their government explicitly emphasizes equality under the law for all citizens. According to their official government website:

• All Australians are equal under the law. No person, group or religion is above the law. Everyone, including people who hold positions of power in the Australian community, must obey Australia’s laws.
• Australia’s democratic system is based on the principle that every individual, regardless of their background, has rights and equality under Australian law. All Australians are expected to treat each other with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, heritage, culture, politics, wealth or religion.

Their message is clear: we will welcome you, we will love you, but you must understand that you are not above our existing citizens and that we are all equal. Therefore, you most live by the laws of our country.

True inclusion

We seem to be approaching inclusion in the wrong manner. Our efforts to promote inclusivity often result in further division. We observe Pride parades, Black History Months, and movements like Black Lives Matter, all aiming to raise awareness of social issues, particularly racism. However, the focus on specific groups overlooks the fact that individuals of various backgrounds, be it African American, Indigenous, East Indian, Asian, or Portuguese, can all fall victim to discrimination. Why then, do we prioritize one group over others?

Discrimination isn’t limited to race or ethnicity; it extends to religion, appearance, and various other aspects of identity. Should we designate special days for each aspect targeted by prejudice? No. Instead, we must shift our societal mindset. Rather than spotlighting victims, we should expose and shame the perpetrators of discrimination, demonstrating through collective action that such behaviour is unacceptable. Movements like women’s rights and feminism similarly seek to address and raise awareness of specific needs.

Each of these groups advocates for awareness in its own right. However, what we truly require is unity, not further division. We must emphasize our shared humanity rather than accentuating our differences.

Ultimately, individuals are judged by their actions, not by mere words or symbolic gestures like changing one’s avatar to display a multi-coloured flag. Actions that affect real change carry far more weight than performative displays aimed at public approval. What one does when no one is watching speaks volumes about their character.

Sadly, we’ve reached a point where being a Caucasian heterosexual male often leads to unjust assumptions, where one must continually prove their lack of racism or demonstrate acceptance of diversity. Merely expressing an opinion about someone from a minority group risks being labeled as intolerant. This environment of walking on eggshells is unacceptable.

Educate, don’t promote

Let’s introduce more generalized awareness days, collectively themed around concepts like Love, Acceptance, and Inclusiveness.

Instead of segregating minority groups with separate observances like Black History Day, Native American Day, or Pride Day, why not establish periodic “Inclusion Days” instead? These events would encompass all targeted minority groups equally in promotional materials, avoiding favoritism towards any specific group.

We must consider the ultimate objective here. True inclusivity doesn’t involve singling out and separating groups; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. The core message should emphasize our shared humanity, celebrating acceptance and understanding of each other’s differences rather than individual pride in specific identities.

To illustrate this point further, I’d like to share a brief video by someone I deeply admire: Simon Sinek. In this video, he discusses Diversity and Inclusion in the corporate world, but the principles he outlines are applicable to our daily lives and perfectly align with the ideas I’ve shared in this blog post. Enjoy.