Perspectives on Diversity and Culture

I talked to a diverse group of individuals regarding diversity and culture. This discussion was held with individuals who were African-American, Caucasian, Spanish, Asian, Bi-racial (African-American/Hispanic) and African.  Similar responses included the following:  "An individuals culture includes the what, when, where and how an individual functions in this world".  I was surprised that everyone, at some point during the discussion, basically expressed this statement. They also believed that culture is apart of one's home and embedded in their own personal core values.  

One of the individuals was somewhat uncomfortable expressing their views on culture and diversity.  They felt that discussing such might be somewhat offensive.  They also expressed that cultures should be respected. They  felt that some cultures experienced more hardships than others and that overall, we are not culture sensitive individuals.  They talked about how the average individual is basically forced (and pressured) to conform to other cultures, if they want a fair shot at achieving success or climbing the ladder of success.  I felt like this was a very interesting statement indeed.  

The terminology was presented, frequently, during the discussion is cultural discontinuity and cultural invisibility. It was amazing to see how individuals feel about discussing their viewpoint on culture and diversity.  It was also mind blowing to hear individuals express that cultures are not really "respected" in the way they should be.  Overall, the group felt that we are, maybe, just now, beginning to look at ensuring sensitivity and respect to diverse cultures.  There was a sad moment, during the discussion, when the individual expressed their belief of individuals basically having to "forget" or "deny" who they were in order to achieve success in life.