The College of the Mainland defines diversity as “Other Centeredness” which focuses on human qualities that are different from our own and outside the groups to which we historically belong.

The adjective “diverse” means different or distinct and the verb “diversify” is synonymous with expand or increase. Therefore, any definition of diversity must include the variety of backgrounds and characteristics found among humankind and should embrace all aspects of human similarities and differences. Because we live in a global community that is becoming increasingly intertwined and interdependent we espouse a functional definition of diversity that involves establishing relationships, policies, and procedures that support individual differences, (cultural and/or ethnic), and which fosters a progressive and civilized society within our communities.

While we recognize that various preconceived notions, especially about our differences, have often resulted in inequitable treatment and discriminatory practices, we support a definition of diversity as an inclusive concept. We do not believe diversity means a decrease in recognition or appreciation for a majority of the individuals who share common characteristics, rather, we adopt a working definition that seeks to include recognition and appreciation for both majority and minority individuals equally, with no greater or lesser emphasis on either. To do otherwise would only lead us to a state of reverse discrimination and perpetual segregation.

“We must remember that any oppression, any injustice, any hatred, is a wedge designed to attack our own civilization….” Franklin D. Roosevelt.