Diversity is "Kewl"

I know, I know. I have only been writing this blog for a week and some of you are thinking that I am already misspelling the title of this post. Hopefully, it drew in your attention to wonder why I would use such an interesting word. Is the word cool spelled kewl wrong or just different? This word diversity is defined as “the state of being diverse, a variety or range of different things”. The definition is still rooted in the same meaning, it is just simply spelled with different letters. Difference is not wrong, it is just simply… different.

I am writing to you today on the streets of New York City. In the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest cities in the world, I can’t help but notice how many distinct, unique and special people make up this pool of humanity. There is so much culture from every nation, far and wide and people intersect their lives together on this plot of land and experience what it is like to be rooted in a background unlike their own.

Every season, I get in front of the members of the wonderful organization that I have the privilege of leading and make a speech. It is simple but has a powerful message. We do not discriminate against people for race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, background or any other factor. We are all people, made for a purpose and respected for our love of the arts. As I walked the halls of the Natural History Museum and studied the culture of so many people walking the streets today or placed my eyes on the Statue of Liberty, I am reminded how very important diversity really is. As I sat in the Broadway theater of “The Color Purple”, I was overwhelmed with emotion as I was completely moved by an all black cast with so much talent and passion. To think that just 50 years ago, not only would I not have been able to see this show, I would have to watch a show in a different theatre or use a different restroom from those same performers. There is so much that I can learn from people who grew up differently, have a different view on life, and have experiences that can shape me into a better person. No matter where we have come from or who we are, we can all learn from each other.

I will be leading Central Florida Community Arts through a year of focus on diversity. We will explore what it is like to be surrounded by people with differences and strive to understand each other. We will move beyond tolerance to truly embracing and celebrating the richness of diversity among us. We will be intentional about promoting the love of all people and wrapping our minds around seeing each individual as someone special, unique and wonderful. We will make sure the arts are affordable and accessible and will work tirelessly to create opportunity for everyone.

Every life matters. Every person matters. Every heart and soul has so much to give and teach me- and you. The arts organization I lead is all about the arts but we are more about people, relationships and growing. I encourage you to take this same attitude in your area of influence. Maybe it is in your workplace, church, family or social circle. What are you doing to make sure the people you come in contact feel accepted, loved and affirmed? I challenge you to join me this year in focusing on this word and its meaning.

When we appreciate diversity and what each of us means, we build and create a sense of community. And when we have community, we truly will experience belonging and home.

Diversity is kewl. Don’t you think?

Much Love,

JV