Defining Culture and Diversity

The feedback I received about how different people defined culture and diversity, had one common thread.  At first most people said, “I don’t know.” “That is a hard question to answer.”  Several people said let me think about it and get back to you.  Once people did provide responses, there was a clear connection between what I have learned and the definitions I received.  Everyone said it was a way of life.  My friend Carmen Lee is Puerto Rican. At first she couldn’t provide a definition. But then she said “Culture is a combination of what makes me different. I don’t know how to explain it.  15 years ago my culture was totally different because the places I have been and the things I have done have influences who I am today.” She went on to define diversity by simple stating, “Diversity is all the cultures of the community. It is like everyone meshes together.”  Another friend was very eloquent when she defined culture and diversity. Heather Lassiter responded, “Culture would be everything that defines a group of people- from the way they act to what they hold dear. Diversity is how this differs among people, from individually to regionally, racially, etc.”  My daughter, Katrina who is 19, could not define either one. I was shocked. She gave me examples but couldn’t define either one.

I think that Carmen Lee’s answer was more personal and individualized.  While Heather’s answer more broad and inclusive of all.  I think the aspect which was omitted from both of the answered was who influences culture. They do not talk about such things as their parents, grandparents, or family lineage.  How is culture created?

After reflecting on the responses I received, I felt that culture and diversity are not topics discussed often.  The initial response of everyone was puzzlement.  I approached friends from various ethnic backgrounds in the hopes of receiving diverse responses.  Carmen Lee is from Puerto Rico, while Heather is Caucasian, Yolanda is African American, and Maria is Hispanic.

People have a difficult time putting definitions into words. They can give examples but feel bemused by the subject.