Unpacking Difference & Marginalization

Marginalization can be obvious, or it can be very subtle, almost impossible to prove—or even convince yourself that it’s happening.  

• Assuming someone will act a certain way based on stereotypes about their identity (aspects such as race, gender, sexuality, etc.)
• Denying professional opportunities because of aspects of someone’s identity (racism, sexism, ableism)
• Not providing equal access to resources because of someone’s identity
• Derogatory language or bullying
• Assuming someone got where they are only because they “check a diversity box”
• Singling someone out because of their religious beliefs or cultural practices
• Refusing to recognize good work or consistently taking credit for another’s work
• Finding ways to isolate someone
• Blatant disrespect

Article referenced written by Beth Castle, 12-30-2019

www.inhersight.com/blog/guide/marginalization

Shifting the Narrative "Learn & Respect Other's Differences"

In my book "I Respect Difference" the following is communicated. "Each friend is different, but by the close of the school year, they will learn to respect and love each other's differences". I believe as a society a day is fast approaching where this will be the common approach toward human interaction and engagement. 

Boys taking ballet lessons and girls playing basketball will not be an uncommon and more importantly unusual way of describing our children's interests. In fact, the traditional norms established in childhood that normally limit a child's life opportunities, will instead become the catalyst to what we're already seeing these days including female engineers, airline captains, military generals, Vice Presidents and eventually Presidents of the United States. 

Ultimately when teachers such as Mrs. Brookings (in my book) ask their students to share a fun fact, boys and girls will share freely with confidence their aspirations, dreams and goals, without concern of being stigmatized, marginalized, shunned or bullied.