“Hey, uh, kid … you help? You help me?”
This came from a tall, confused-looking Saudi Arabian student, awkwardly lumbering away on an assignment for an English as a second language class in Tim Hortons.
He was supposed to review an online article, but his English speaking skills were limited and his writing ability was almost non-existent.
For the next few weeks, I would find this student at Tim Hortons, who identified only as “Zaki,” and we would work together on his assignments.
I’d also engage in basic conversation with him to improve his English, which slowly but surely improved by the end of the school year.
To me, this is what diversity should be about. A melting pot of love, shared understandings and helping your fellow man no matter who he is.
To me, diversity isn’t about the number of people of each race or the forced, deliberate equality for the sake thereof.
Rather, it’s about the intangibles: love, respect and brotherhood toward all.
Diversity is University’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, which helps arrange countless events to celebrate the different cultures on campus.
It’s the Black Student Union, hosting a variety of events this month as a time to celebrate and educate on the joy and melancholy of black history.
It’s therefore a warm tribute that Tiffany Smith, president of the BSU, told The BG News last week that students of all races and backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to participate in the Black History Month events.
After all, she said, “It’s not black history, it’s American history. It’s everyone’s history.”
This In Focus takes a look at diversity on campus, from the ways in which the University reaches out to minority students to the Global Village.
Take the time to learn about how this University is celebrating and promoting diversity through its programs and concerted efforts.
Take the time to reflect on your own feelings of diversity and think of your own understanding of those in your community, your hallway and your world. It’s well worth the time to love and appreciate your fellow man.
