d.). Individual differences refer to gender, race, ethnicity, age, economic status, religion, and political affiliation. Diversity requires the exploration of difference in an environment, which is nurturing, positive, and safe. "It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance and to embrace and celebrate the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual" (Definition of Diversity, n.d.). .
Advocacy.
Advocacy can be defined as "the act of pleading for, supporting, or recommending" (Definition of Advocacy, n.d.). It is often the stance an individual takes in response to issues that may involve or interest them. Six contexts of advocacy are identified in the text Leadership, Advocacy, Policy, and Law: advocacy for an individual child and/or family, advocacy for the profession, program-based advocacy, private sector advocacy, political activism, and advocacy in the global arena. .
Advocacy for an Individual Child and/or Family.
When advocating for an individual child and/or family the process begins with a profession identifying the child as being in crisis. This will often occur early in the child's education. "Advocacy begins at a micro(personal) level when teachers of young children assess the abilities and life situations of the child in their charge, recognizes the needs, and develops a willingness to do something about it" (Fowler, Hulett, & Kieff, 2009, p. 414). .
Advocacy of the Profession.
To better promote education within the profession, advocacy of the profession must occur to gain a better understanding of the values and be able to acknowledge the significance of contributions made by the professional in early childhood. The agenda "includes working for the development, implementation, and funding policies that ensure that the early care and educations workforce is recognized and compensated for their valuable contributions to society's well-being" (Fowler, Hulett, & Kieff, 2009, p.