America - the great "melting pot" - has always been a rich blend of cultural traditions from all over the world. Many American families can trace their histories to immigrant ancestors who traveled great distances, enduring risk and hardship, to make a home where they would be guaranteed basic freedoms. And for many American families these freedoms came with a struggle. Their parents and grandparents were deprived the basic rights we value.

American society was founded on freedom from religious persecution and on tolerance of differences in beliefs and cultural heritage. The differences (or diversity) that come from people from all over the world enrich our culture, bringing new ideas and energy. Today, more than ever, children have opportunities to interact with people of differing ethnicities, religions, and cultures. Classrooms are increasingly diverse, reflecting the communities where families live and work.

A World of Difference

Some parents welcome the fact that we live in an increasingly diverse society. Others may feel more hesitant, especially if they have not had much exposure to people different from themselves. Many children are way ahead of their parents in terms of exposure to cultural differences. Their circle of friends, their schoolmates, and their athletic teams are much more varied than those of even a generation ago.

Why is it important for parents to help their children prepare to live, learn, and work in communities that will become even more diverse? Teaching tolerance is important not just because it is part of our American heritage but because the person who learns to be open to differences will have more opportunity - in education, in business, and in so many other ways.

In short, your child's success depends on it. Success in today's world - and tomorrow's - depends on being able to understand, appreciate, and work with others.

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