By Mitchell Salerno (Statesville Christian)
I just returned from the 2008 Inclusivity Conference sponsored by the Palmetto Association of Independent Schools. It was a thought provoking day and a half. Most of the attending schools were not ACSI schools and most did not espouse a biblical worldview. I found myself asking questions about diversity and inclusivity, particularly those surrounding the Christian school response to these issues. How do we (Christian schools) deal with issues relating to race, socio-economic status, learning disabilities, sexual orientation, etc.? I can almost feel the cringe as you read those words (especially the last two). Reflect a bit on your school, is it diverse? Do you celebrate diversity? Does your school mirror the community? Is God glorified by your practices concerning inclusivity and diversity? Are you intentional in your efforts to create diversity?
I found myself asking a far more profound and interesting question as I left this conference, however. I wonder why it is easier for those that do not espouse a biblical worldview to discuss topics such as diversity and inclusivity. I have been in Christian schools for most of my life and have never heard of a diversity conference. In fact, most of us do not tolerate the word “tolerance.” Perhaps rightly so…but our voice is largely absent from the public dialogue. We are no longer salt and light because we do not communicate.
One of the interesting experiences from this conference occurred on the first evening. We were placed in groups with people that we did not know and were asked to dialogue. After some pleasantries and friendly chatter, we had to reflect on a word that was placed under our chair. We were told to share what the word meant to us in the context of our professional responsibility and diversity. The words included faith, courage, love, vision, and patience. My word was compassion. Remember, this was not a “Christian” conference! Take a moment and reflect on those words, placing them in the context of diversity and inclusivity. I think that you will find that we have something to share on the topic.
One of the highlights of the conference was watching the students from a variety of schools interact and dialogue on diversity. Students from the largest and most respected private schools in South Carolina and North Carolina were represented. Unfortunately, I did not bring any of my students. (Next year I will!) I wonder how my students would have interacted and responded. Would they have been able to boldly and confidently articulate a biblical worldview? Would they have exhibited a Christ-like attitude?
I will be reflecting on this conference for some time. I am particularly interested in creating a Christian school community that is not afraid to enter into the public dialogue. I pray that my school will equip its students to participate in future Inclusivity Conferences with intelligence, grace, wit, candor, and effectiveness such that our great God is glorified.
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