Be The Change

MLK Celebration Highlights Diversity

Martin Luther KingThe James Madison University community is coming together this week not only to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., but also to celebrate the individuality of each person that makes up the fabric of JMU.

Though the idea of diversity for some conjures up negative images of tension, violence and struggle that King dealt with throughout his life, the focus now should be on celebration, said Art Dean, JMU special assistant to the president for diversity.

"Diversity is very important. I think sometimes the connotation of the word can evoke various emotions for each individual," Dean said. "But really, if you break it down, the goal is to be able to celebrate each individual person, to recognize that there are differences in their life experiences and being willing to celebrate, listen to and learn from each individual person."

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