Читать книгу Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice - Prospera Tedam - Страница 33

In simple terms, diversity involves the range of human differences. Valuing diversity considers how we can accept and celebrate our differences because, as human beings, each of us has a story, made up of diverse experiences. Our backgrounds, experiences and life lessons make us unique, supporting the well-known phrase that no two people are ever the same. Diversity is a broad concept, often encompassing terms such as inclusion, multiculturalism and difference, to mention a few. Eradicating unlawful discrimination experienced by minority groups and individuals through legislation is a reminder that valuing diversity cannot be left to the good will and preferences of people. Social workers are uniquely placed to understand the need to challenge and disrupt structures, values and views that alienate, oppress, marginalise and exclude people for reasons of their diversity. For example, Black, Asian and minority ethnic people, women, people with mental health problems, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI) people, the elderly and people with disabilities often bear the brunt of social and structural inequalities. There is also diversity in the specialist areas of social work which practitioners work in. This type of diversity will be highlighted further in Chapter 14 where multi-agency working is discussed.