Opinions expressed are the author’s own views and do not officially represent those of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

The idea of diversity is one that should appeal to most of us. When we have a life which includes various and diverse activities, it can add so much to our own personal growth. We may learn a new language, or a new craft or hobby. Perhaps learning a new sporting activity. Even at work it can get rather tiring doing the same job every day but when we have the opportunity to learn and work at other duties or a different location it can add a new dimension to our work day. Of course many of us are now adapting to working from home during this Covid 19 pandemic time.

Diversity also extends to human beings and how we can experience and grow from being part of a diverse racial and cultural society. By learning all we can about the history, culture and faith traditions of other ethnic groups, we will enhance our ability to fully enjoy what God undoubtedly had planned for us.

However this inclusion of diversity in our lives is much more than attending an event that is multiracial. It is more than saying you have friends or work with someone from a racialized group. While Canada is becoming a nation of many ethnic and racial backgrounds, we must also realize that it does present some challenges. Do we ever act against racism by our own words and actions? Our failure to act and advocate against racism does not make us racists but it does mean we are failing. Consider this excerpt from the book White Fragility by Robin Diangelo…”Exclusion by those at the table doesn’t depend on willful intent; we don’t have to intend to exclude for the results of our actions to be exclusion.”

In today’s world we continue to face challenges to the concept of diversity. We read about black lives matter, residential schools, white privilege and systemic racism. Do we actively advocate for systemic changes in the laws and actions that allow racism to even exist?

If we consider Catholic social teachings and the principle of Common Good for all human beings we can see how God has given us the opportunity to truly become his children by embracing one another, irregardless of race, creed, colour or religion. Diversity should be celebrated by all.

Let us join in a diversity alliance that is inclusive of all racialized persons and fulfills what God has given us all.

About the author:

Jim Paddon lives in London, Ontario, Canada and is a Canadian Vincentian. He is currently chair of the National Social Justice Committee of the Society in Canada. He is married to his dear wife Pat and they have six daughters and eleven grandchildren. Jim has been a member of the Society since the 1970’s.