Embracing Multiculturalism in the United States: A Call for Deeper Public Engagement

QUESTION

Using Fowers and Richardson’s article, “Why is Multiculturalism Good?” And Bhikhu Parekh’s article, “Rethinking Multiculturalism” compose an essay to the Houston Chronicle arguing for a deeper public engagement with multiculturalism. Please do not feel compelled to take a rigid (dogmatic) approach to the issue. You may examine the issue in terms of degrees and gradations, if you wish, and suggest that some approaches to multiculturalism, including the institutions (educational, religious, political, and so on) they represent, are positive while other forms are negative. In the end, however, make your case for a specific approach to the place of multiculturalism in the institutions, symbols, and social practices that make up the United States. make it a four pages critical explanation including the background of multiculturalism in the U.S.A and references for each essays.

ANSWER

 Embracing Multiculturalism in the United States: A Call for Deeper Public Engagement

Introduction

Multiculturalism is an ever-evolving concept that has played a significant role in shaping the United States’ diverse society. With an influx of immigrants and a history of cultural pluralism, the U.S. has become a melting pot of traditions, languages, and belief systems. In this essay, we will explore the ideas presented by Fowers and Richardson in “Why is Multiculturalism Good?” and Bhikhu Parekh’s “Rethinking Multiculturalism” to argue for a deeper public engagement with multiculturalism. While acknowledging degrees and gradations in its implementation, we will emphasize the positive impact of embracing multiculturalism within various institutions, symbols, and social practices that make up the United States.

Background of Multiculturalism in the U.S.A

The United States has long been a land of cultural diversity, with waves of immigrants arriving over centuries, each contributing their unique traditions and customs to the nation’s fabric. The concept of multiculturalism gained momentum in the 1960s and 1970s as a response to the civil rights movement and growing recognition of the need for social justice and equality. The U.S. government adopted policies to protect the rights of minorities and promote diversity in education and workplaces. However, the approach to multiculturalism has been varied, with some supporting its positive aspects while others critiquing its implications.

The Perspective of Fowers and Richardson on Multiculturalism

In their article, “Why is Multiculturalism Good?”, Fowers and Richardson advocate for an approach to multiculturalism that goes beyond a superficial celebration of diversity. They argue that genuine multiculturalism involves cultivating an understanding of diverse worldviews and appreciating the richness of different cultural traditions. According to them, such an approach fosters empathy, reduces prejudice, and creates a more inclusive and cohesive society.

The Perspective of Bhikhu Parekh on Multiculturalism

Bhikhu Parekh’s article, “Rethinking Multiculturalism,” challenges the prevailing notions of multiculturalism that tend to compartmentalize cultural groups. He proposes a more dynamic approach that encourages intercultural dialogue and interaction. Parekh believes that while cultural identities are essential, they should not be rigidly separated from each other. Instead, individuals should be encouraged to engage in dialogue, recognize shared values, and find common ground despite their differences.

A Balanced Approach to Multiculturalism in the United States

To foster a deeper public engagement with multiculturalism in the United States, we must adopt a balanced approach that acknowledges both its positive aspects and potential pitfalls. In educational institutions, curricula should be designed to teach students about various cultures, histories, and worldviews, promoting mutual respect and understanding. Schools can organize cultural exchange programs, where students from different backgrounds can interact and learn from one another.

In political institutions, diversity should be embraced in policymaking and representation. Encouraging participation from various cultural groups ensures that the voices of all citizens are heard and considered. Political leaders should promote unity while appreciating and celebrating the nation’s diversity.

Religious institutions can play a vital role in fostering multiculturalism by promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Encouraging individuals from different religious backgrounds to engage in conversations about their beliefs can help bridge divides and promote mutual understanding and respect.

Social practices and symbols also hold significance in fostering multiculturalism. Public celebrations and events can incorporate diverse cultural elements, promoting a sense of shared belonging among all citizens. Embracing multicultural symbols, such as recognizing culturally significant holidays, can symbolize the acceptance and celebration of cultural diversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, embracing multiculturalism in the United States requires a thoughtful and balanced approach that goes beyond surface-level celebration. Drawing from the insights of Fowers and Richardson, as well as Bhikhu Parekh, we should strive for genuine understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural traditions. By promoting multiculturalism in educational, religious, political, and social institutions, we can foster empathy, reduce prejudice, and create a more inclusive and cohesive society. Embracing diversity is not just a choice; it is an opportunity to enrich our collective identity and make the United States a beacon of multicultural harmony and acceptance.

References

Fowers, B. J., & Richardson, F. C. (1996). “Why is Multiculturalism Good?” American Psychologist, 51(6), 609-621.
Parekh, B. (2000). “Rethinking Multiculturalism.” Cultural Values, 4(3), 209-227.