Today with globalization at its height, it is rare when you are not faced with the interaction of cultures different from your own. Although not all people are not keen with the mix of cultures some are and it's called cultural pluralism. Cultural Pluralism is when there's a mixture of ethnic, racial, religious, groups who have a peaceful connection when existing together, all the while recognizing their differences with no negativity. An example from the textbook, Communicating Ethnic and Cultural Identity, was that of a wedding invitation card between an American and Asian couple. While designing the wedding invitations they decided to incorporate both cultures by using the standard American idea of love and connection as well as Chinese characters and colors that symbolize luck. This way it portrayed that they can co-exist acknowledging each others differences and be comfortable and receptive.
I believe that cultural pluralism is the ultimate key to making globalization a success. It's an obvious adjustment yet people are not keen to the idea. Ethnocentrism is a problem. I am thankful that I was raised in a place that was for the most part was accepting to many cultures. It only became a problem when someone was being disrespectful. Everyone around me participated in multiple cultural activities from celebrating Chinese New Year, Fourth of July, Japanese Bon Dance, Chicken fighting (which is now illegal) and that's just to name a few.
Every year the Big Island of Hawaii celebrates hula with a huge competition called the Merrie Monarch Festival. Not only is there the competition but also arts and crafts and fun activities to participate in to immerse oneself in the Hawaiian culture. Halau's (schools of dance) from neighboring islands, all over the mainland U.S. even Mexico. Of course the dances differ and each incorporates their own cultural flare but it's all about recognizing each other. I believe the video of the Halau from Mexico is a prime example of cultural pluralism at its best, because they're not only accepting but sharing and respecting it as well.
I totally agree with you and how cultural pluralism will lead us to more globalization because it is important for us to be aware and accepting of different cultures. I always like to learn about new cultures because everybody has different customs and it feels nice to be united with different people. The video about the Halau dance was really nice because it shows that anyone who is willing to learn about different cultures and respects it can be a part of it.
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