Diversity has become a massive media buzzword. For those used to a homogenous environment, implementing diversity and inclusion into their lives can feel like too big a change, and people are often resistant to change. It’s much easier to keep to the status quo.
In actuality, studies show that diversity has an overall positive impact. It brings about tangible change.
Holding a doctorate in International Psychology and founder of Out of the Box Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, Dr. Olivia West, also known as Dr. O, is an advocate, author, coach, consultant, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and hypnotherapist. She has made it her mission to promote diversity and inclusion through her work.
Here are some of the ways that diversity and inclusion benefit groups, according to Dr. O:
- Dismantles Preconceived Notions of Others
When the only information people have access to about another group of people is through the media, what they are shown is what they may believe to be true. However, meeting people from different backgrounds presents a valuable learning opportunity, one that can break down barriers and foster strong relationships.
Studying and conducting research around the world, in places such as Japan, France, Austria, Ethiopia, Qatar, South Africa, Israel, and more, broke down the ideas Dr. O had about other countries.
- Opens the Door to New Possibilities
Dr. O got a bachelor’s degree but did not believe she was smart enough to do it. It was a struggle with her dyslexia and dyscalculia, especially during her statistics course.
“I remember one day asking one of my classmates, “Why is it that every time we have to take the test, you always leave the room?” I thought that she had some type of race-based privilege, and I wanted to know why she didn’t have to take the test. She matter-of-factly said that she had dyslexia and had accommodations,” Dr. O shared.
“I was so taken aback that she had the same diagnosis as I, and that she was receiving special accommodations. The shame that I carried with having a learning disability and seeing how unbothered she was sharing that she has dyslexia was a pivotal moment. The next day, I applied for and was able to receive accommodations, which afforded me extended time for tests and other accommodations that allowed me to pass my statistics course and subsequently support me throughout my Doctoral degree program.
Before receiving accommodations, it was just me struggling all my life, feeling not smart enough,” recalls Dr. O.
- Brings Together New Ways of Thinking
Different lived experiences lead to diverse solutions to problems. Imagine living in a place with harsh sunshine. Wearing sunscreen or a hat to prevent sunburns is a common practice. On the other hand, someone from a rainy place is accustomed to carrying an umbrella. When they visit the sunny location, the umbrella still accompanies them. Suddenly, it finds a new use for sun protection that may not have been considered before.
Diversity and inclusion provide good changes to the world. People like Dr. O are spearheading initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion. For those interested in fostering greater diversity and inclusion, resources and support can be found at Out of the Box Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting.
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