Diversity Day

“Not only did the performers emphasize the importance and richness found in cultural differences, they helped to remember why diversity should be acknowledged and civil rights respected in the workplace.”

“Why do we need training on civil rights?”   That question was posed by a number of employees prior to Diversity Day, on October 27, 2004.

Through performances by a Chinese-American, Native American, and African-American, we learned of prejudging and stereotyping that have, and continue to confront those of different ethic origins for as long as we know.  Acknowledging this as it relates to the workplace is the obvious answer to that question.

Following a brief presentation on Civil Rights, employees welcomed cultural performer Stephanie Sum.  Sum, a Chinese-American, delighted the audience with particulars on tea, the Silk Road, and the significance of Confucius to the Chinese culture.  Adorned in a traditional Chinese outfit while performing a colorful ribbon fan dance, Sum shared an impressive collection of others worn in different parts of China.  She described her experience as a minority in corporate America, and how long-lived stereo-types have affected her career advancement and continue to impact her business relationships.   

Next was Marge Bruchac, an Abenaki Indian and Historical Consultant, who has studied the effects and intensity of socio-political attitudes towards Native Americans and African Americans in the 1830’s. Bruchac described the furrowed road that Native Americans in the local area traveled in the early 19th century.  To further illustrate the prejudice that existed during that time, she roleplayed Mali Geet, a Native American who aided residents in the village.  Bruchac had some attendees read aloud excerpts from historical documents regarding social perceptions of Native Americans. Her presentation helped us understand the secondary status historically assigned to minorities and the personal pain it must have caused. She challenged us to question the origin and validity of existing perceptions of individuals from different ethnic groups.

The final performer was African American Storyteller Len Cabral.  Clad in a richly textured jacket and decorated with jewelry collected from his travels, Cabral instantly captured everyone’s attention with his animated and authoritative manner.  Of Cape Verde heritage, Cabral shared personal stories of growing up as a minority in Rhode Island, including his experience with racial profiling. While his recount was humorously performed, his story conveyed how subtle, blatant, and pervasive stereotyping can be. He reminded us of the significance of storytelling in many of the world’s cultures, and how this simple act not only entertains, but bridges a gap between people.

Not only did the performers emphasize the importance and richness found in cultural differences, they helped us to remember why diversity should be acknowledged and civil rights respected in the workplace.

Author: Jewel McKenzie

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