Canada is one of those countries priding itself on “inclusion”. Ever since Pierre Elliot Trudeau, push for multiculturalism has been a defining theme. Expanded beyond culture, it has grown to include almost everything. Claimed to be a moral virtue, tolerance is the new respect while acceptance and appreciation of diversity are religiously preached.
A level of tolerance and respect for freedom of speech and expression are absolutely required if a society is to remain free. It isn’t a moral virtue nor does it somehow equate to respect, the latter of which is typically earned. Superficially, the ideas seem sound yet miss some fundamentals.
Almost all promotional efforts today single out a group. This is exactly the opposite of inclusion. Acknowledgements now preface almost every event and signs litter the doors of many establishments. In each case they specifically speak to only one group to the exclusion of all others. Instead of promoting inclusion they elevate specific groups.
What has escaped intellectual grasp is inclusion doesn’t require singling out. Silent acceptance is far more powerful and less divisive. Want to ensure people feel welcome in your business? Try the traditional “Welcome” sign. If you must, add the word “all” in front. “Welcome” is a word that truly doesn’t discriminate, hold bias, or promote one over another. Anything more generates bias and should be considered unacceptable.
It is the singling out of peoples, classes, or groups that actually creates and promotes prejudice. But perhaps that is what its about. After all a divided people is easier to manipulate and control than a unified one.