Commitment to Diversity
As a nation, we must focus on creating a
more perfect union through the development
of a better understanding of the diverse
nature of our society. This premise lies
at the heart of the joint university/community
effort to recognize that human diversity is a
major strength of the Mahoning Valley.
As people interact with one another, they develop and exchange a diverse set of identities. These identities-including, among others, gender, race, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, religion, varying physical and mental abilities, class, age, education, profession, and regional identity-carry socially constructed meaning and value. Each of us brings multiple identities to the organizations and communities of which we are a part, forming a mosaic that allows us to retain our individuality while contributing to collective purposes and achievements.
The health and well-being of any society depends on its members appreciating the entire mosaic of which they are a part. We need to actively oppose all discriminatory practices and support organizations that reflect and empower diverse perspectives.
YSU seeks to work in collaboration with the larger community of which it is a part to provide leadership in
the attainment of these goals and to foster educational, economic, and social opportunity for all citizens in our community.
Quoted from "Commitment to Diversity: Community Task Force on Diversity Report, August 1999"