WHAT IS CULTURAL DIVERSITY

“If man is to survive, he will have learned to take a delight in the essential differences between men and between cultures. He will learn that differences in ideas and attitudes are a delight, part of life's exciting variety, not something to fear.” ― Gene Roddenberry

This month's Sistaz Open Mic comes  almost a month after over 200 girls were abducted in Nigeria, a very sad development.  In support of articles 4, 5, 13, 16 and 26 of "The Universal Declaration of Human Rights which state:
 
Article 1.
All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

Article 4.
No one shall be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the slave trade shall be prohibited in all their forms.

Article 16.
(1) Men and women of full age, without any limitation due to race, nationality or religion, have the right to marry and to found a family. They are entitled to equal rights as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution.

• (2) Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses.
• (3) The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the State.

better societies can be built when/if all men respect each others spaces.  There are certain harmful cultures or practices which must be discarded, should never be imposed on unwilling individuals before communities and nations can fully progress. 
 
As we celebrate "Cultural Diversity" and also marking the beginning of Culture week running from the 17-24th of May, we are saying, let's come together and embrace our differences in a way that edifies each and everyone of us. Sistaz Open Mic spreading oneness, love and advancement for all, this Saturday joins Campaign for the Nigerian Girls “+263 for 234+” spearheaded by Nyasha Sengayi(Activist, One Billion Rising) and Judith Chiyangwa(Girls Legacy) - in solidarity with our Nigerian sisters.

 
 ON THE CULTURE WEEK

This year’s Culture Week theme is “Promoting Cultural Diversity and Inclusion” .The theme targets to:

·         Bring in the participation of women’s groups, the youth and people with disabilities

·         Raise awareness nationwide on the importance of intercultural dialogue, supported by   the inclusion in the constitution of all indigenous languages as official Zimbabwe languages

·         Promote cultural practices and improve understanding and cooperation among people from different cultures

 

In 2001 UNESCO proclaimed 21 May of each year the World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. Cultural diversity is a defining characteristic of humanity that when cultivated and respected can create a well-developed nation. It nurtures diverse human capacities and values and in the process promotes national growth that fosters unity and identity.
 
Compiled By Batsirai E Chigama
for FLAME PROJECT