The purpose of this paper is to enhance the reader's knowledge of the true meaning of multiculturalism, and to provide a reason for multicultural education. Some think that multiculturalism is divisive rather than unifying. It emphasizes on our uniqueness and differences, rather than our similarities and commonalties, continuing keep the rift wide. Some worry that if schools are to pass on our collective "American culture," who decides what that culture is (Miningco. 1)?.
Multiculturalism has some serious logical flaws and I am skeptical of "tolerance used as a policy" when limits are set upon it. There is no freedom when others are oppressed (Miningco. 1)!.
Multiculturalism is, to some, racism in a politically- correct guise. It would turn this country into a collection of separatist groups competing with each other for power. Multiculturalism is a threat to education: instead of encouraging students to question their assumptions and the assumptions of their parents and society, multiculturalism demands that students accept blindly what they"re given. Many people have a very superficial view of racism (Gorski & Covert The Multicultural Pavilion 1).
Racism is the notion that one's race determines one's identity. The spread of racism requires the destruction of an individual's confidence in his own mind. The diversity movement claims that its goal is to extinguish racism and build tolerance of differences: this is a complete sham.
Multicultural education is a transformative movement in education, which produces critically thinking, socially active members of society. It respects diversity while teaching all children to become effective and participating members of a democracy. It respects individuality while promoting respect for others. It emphasizes the contributions of the various groups (ethnic, gender, religious, sexual orientation, etc.) that make up the population of the world (Gorski & Covert The Multicultural Pavilion 1).