Cultural Pluralism

Chelsea Sessoms

Cultural Pluralism is a very abstract and difficult topic to study. According to international standards, all people have the right to cultural expression. In other words, all groups, including minority groups, have the right to protect, promote, and practice their cultural traditions and beliefs. This is where things get a little tricky. Unlike many other international human rights topics, there is not really a way to legally mandate the right to cultural expression because it is such a broad and abstract idea. In order to promote this ideal of cultural pluralism in Chapel Hill and Carborro, acceptance and respect for other cultures must be instilled in citizens’ consciousness. Because people tend to fear what they do not understand, I think the best way to do this is through cultural education and awareness. Having events such as cultural festivals in the community or culture awareness days in schools could be very beneficial. By exposing people to other cultures, it will promote understanding and the ideal of cultural pluralism. For example, a local group, The Cultural Arts Group, organized a dinner to promote cultural diversity in art around Orange County. This event allowed people to come together and learn about other cultures. In order to truly be successful in promoting cultural awareness, we would need to ensure that the local population is represented. The best way to measure the success or failure of the spread of cultural awareness would be to note the levels of cultural discrimination. In short, cultural pluralism can be achieved in the Chapel Hill and Carborro areas. By spreading education and cultural awareness, the citizens will be more understanding and respectful of other cultures.