I’m sure many of you have heard the cliche ‘it would be a boring world if we were all the same.’ And you might have rolled your eyes when you heard it, especially if this line was delivered a parent. But if you think about it, it really would be boring. Our differences are what make us more interesting and collectively, cultural diversity is something we should appreciate
This week it is the one year anniversary of the Christchurch Mosque Shooting. With the time that has passed, this awful event might have slipped your mind. But we must make an effort to remember the lesson it taught us; that we need to celebrate diversity and celebrate our differences.
Where we come from isn’t what makes us New Zealanders, it’s our kindness and our can-do kiwi attitudes. To begin with, New Zealand (like most countries) was a country inhabited by immigrants. It was settled by many different ethnic groups, starting with the early Maori from Eastern Polynesian in 1320 and then in 1642 by a Dutchman named Abel Tasman. Since then, the number of ethnicities in New Zealand has skyrocketed to well over 200. With this growing diversity, there is a growing importance of being inclusive.
This means doing your part to make sure people feel respected and safe. If you see or hear something that isn’t kind make sure you say something. It’s a great idea to lead by example too. This week ask your friends and classmates about their culture and where they come from. Or see if there is a cultural celebration day at your school or in your area and take part.
Diversity is awesome as it allows you to understand new perspectives. Someone who is from the Philippines might have a favourite sport or food that is different to someone from Scotland. Hearing about other people’s experiences can shed light on life different to your own. Your mum was somewhat right, it would be a boring world if we were all the same. But whilst we might be different in some ways, we are the same in the ways that count.
Where are your ancestors or family from? Have you ever experienced a different culture that you loved? Comment below.
