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St. Cloud State University
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Local culture should be respected too
By Cory Fechtelkotter
Published:
Thursday, April 7, 2005
Many people on this campus routinely express their desire to make SCSU a safer and more welcoming place for peoples of different cultures. I have nothing but respect for the intent of these individuals, but the way in which many of them seek to achieve their goals is not reasonable, practical or even respectful.
For some reason, these individuals believe that the only way to create an atmosphere of diversity, tolerance and acceptance is to eliminate any vestiges of the local culture.
The best example would be how every year, someone has a problem with Christmas decorations displayed on campus. Every year, someone complains that SCSU is somehow endorsing Christianity and forcing one culture on everyone else through these decorations.
To imply that a pine garland, or a Christmas tree on top of Sherburne Hall or any other decorations force the local culture on others is ridiculous (many international students I have spoken with agree). Additionally, Christmas has become so secularized and commercialized that it is an undeniable part of our culture, no matter what your religion may be.
Besides, many international students probably come to SCSU because they want to experience American and Minnesotan culture. By denying our own culture, we are not only cheating ourselves, we are cheating those that have traveled across the world to learn about a place they have never been to before.
I would certainly be upset if I went to Germany to study abroad, and learned nothing of German culture because everyone was pandering to my American heritage. International students are doing their part by allowing us to experience their culture, and we should return the favor, instead of hiding what makes us who we are.
This goes far beyond decorations and sensitivity training. If we truly want to create an atmosphere of tolerance and diversity, we need to be accepting of all cultures, including our own.
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