Achieving Unity through Diversity Dr. Rodney H. Clarken School of Education, Northern Michigan University Presented at the 2008 UNITED Conference September 21-23, 2008 Selling your ideas is challenging. First, you must get your listeners to agree with you in principle. Then, you must move them to action. Use the Dale Carnegie Training® Evidence – Action – Benefit formula, and you will deliver a motivational, action-oriented presentation. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
We need a new and comprehensive vision of a unified global society, supported by new values that honor human diversity: acceptance of the oneness of humanity profound consciousness of the indisputable interdependence of all the peoples and nations of the world world citizenship © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Unity in diversity supports legitimate loyalties that honor wider loyalties cultural expressions that do not conflict with other’s rights and freedoms national autonomy that recognizes the value of a united federated system © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
It does not impose uniformity suppress diversity of ethnicity, history, language, thought, tradition, habits, etc. support excessive centralization © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Education is the most effective way to shape the values, attitudes, behaviors and skills to function effectively in an integrated society and world that abides by the principle of unity in diversity. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Teach unity in diversity as the foundation principle for social integration for all groups. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Cultivate tolerance, love, brotherhood, equality, compassion, understanding, sacrifice, humility, and an active commitment to justice. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Nurture an appreciation for the richness and importance of the world's diverse cultural, religious and social systems, in as much as they contribute to social integration, justice and unity. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Build on the country's positive efforts and highlight its tangible successes with social integration, including models of racial, religious, national and ethnic unity. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Have at their heart the moral development of the individual, emphasizing virtue as the foundation for actions that foster individual and collective spiritual and material well-being. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Convey an understanding of the rights and corresponding responsibilities of all people. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Be free of stereotyping based on religion, culture, gender, race, class, nationality and ethnicity. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
Foster an ethic of service to the entire human race, including one's family, neighbors, community, and nation; and provide the practical means for its expression in the education process through service- oriented programs. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
The values, attitudes, and skills taught through the various educational programs must also be translated into action. © Rodney H. Clarken 2008
References Most of the material in this presentation was adapted from Bahá’í International Community statements © Rodney H. Clarken 2008