Finding Unity in Diversity

In a society that is a melting pot of identities, we tend to define ourselves through aspects of our background and find community within these groups. This often leads to a detachment from and a lack of understanding between us and those outside our groups.

I am a South Asian woman, straight and liberal, from a middle-class Muslim family. Throughout my life, I have dealt with racism and Islamophobia. Despite these hardships, several aspects of my identity have granted me privilege within society. I am grateful to have grown up without worrying about where I would sleep or if there was food on the table every night. And I have never been discriminated against because of my sexuality. 

In this way, I recognize my privilege, and I know I can never truly understand what people who struggle with such difficulties face. My outlook on the world is rather limited when I solely consider my identifiers. But educating myself on the adversities of other communities and listening to the stories of those with different identities has broadened my worldview. 

Growing up in a particularly religious family, my faith has always been a significant part of my life. In the past, this restricted my perspective, as I struggled to understand views outside my belief system. In turn, this led me to place religious people on a pedestal.

I have since realized that religiousness does not necessarily equate to righteousness. Everyone has different morals and ideals that guide them through life, and there are infinitely many “right” ways of perceiving the world. I am now more intrigued by other views and take an interest in understanding the similarities and differences between them and my own.

Over time, I have become passionate about many social issues that don’t directly impact me. I have also watched as they have become polarized instead of being seen for what they truly are: human rights issues. Movements are further overshadowed as people debate which marginalized group's hardships are more severe. However, the differences between our experiences and that of others can be a unifying force. Considering my own identifiers and experiences with discrimination has allowed me to better understand the similar struggles of other groups and pushed me to become involved in various social issues.

To generate true change, it is necessary to actively play a part in improving the world around you and advocating for what you believe in. Individual actions have an impact, but when people of diverse backgrounds and identities come together to work toward a common goal, they are stronger and accomplish so much more. It is crucial to uplift the voices of other communities and unite in our differences to progress as a society.

Junaynah Ramia is a high school Junior from New York City.