Pondering Diversity & TCC

I recently went through the application process to teach T’ai Chi Chih in the local community college’s Continuing Education program. One step required submission of a “Diversity Statement.” What? What could I say that hasn’t been said? Here is what I came up with, which may provide the opportunity for you to ponder as well.

“Respect. Honor. Support. Seek to understand. Listen with empathy. Recognize different backgrounds, lifestyles and learning styles.”

The year of 2020 was difficult – when not only Black Lives Matter, but also LGBTQ, nursing home residents, health care workers, registered Democrats and Republicans, firefighters and mask or non-mask wearers “matter.”

It is all too easy to categorize every encounter by first labeling who one is interacting with. One of the principles of the TCC practice I have learned and now teach is that through our movement and meditation we can discover Who and What we are. The process involves taking a breath, centering ourselves and “letting the dust settle.” This is also a good approach to interactions with others. Centering myself has led to me also accepting myself, which opens my heart and makes it easier to let go and be receptive to others.

This applies to students, teachers, staff, employees and presenters whom one encounters on a college campus. Each individual comes from different circumstances, facing different challenges. And it’s not always apparent – those language differences; physical, mental or emotional struggles; economic, racial or social backgrounds…. We just can’t assume that we know or understand.

Better to take a learner’s approach. Treat each person with dignity and courtesy. With openness and humility. It’s 2021 and difficult to say anything that doesn’t ring of oft-heard platitudes. But it’s good to pause and reflect.