Diversity is one of the main point of our nations tagline, “Unity in Diversity”. It is expected that all of us Indonesian to understand this unique reality of our beloved country. Widely known for its magnificent number of islands, ethnicity, languages, it is obvious why diversity is another whole story to tell in the context of Indonesia’s identity. But the word diversity has much more thing to say.
This is not just a difference in culture, but far more than that it is the uniqueness of the way each and every individual think. We can’t claim one culture think this way and another don’t. We can not judge one culture has more advanced way of thinking than another. But some of us, regardless of what ethnicity, race or religion we came from, the thoughts of stereotyping people could evolve, even some to the point where it can be dangerous. Hate speech towards someone from another background can be one of the simplest example of the disrespect to the beauty of the diversity. If it’s not hindered well, the manifestation of the hatred can go wilder and give worse damage.
It is legally established that cultural diversity and human rights are strongly bonded. Clearly, in the article four of the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, it is said that “The defense of cultural diversity is an ethical imperative, inseparable from respect for human dignity.” We can conclude that the human rights is the guarantees of cultural diversity, so in order to fight for the human rights, diversity must be a concern.
Some of the human rights violation are triggered by cultural differences, and as we know, those differences are an easy thing to be found here in Indonesia. Diversity is not the problem, but the idea that someone different is there to be pushed against and unity in diversity will not make it.
This kind of shallow thought should not be existing here or anywhere in the world. The concept of differences that builds up harmony has rooted in our own national culture, also has a firm foundation on human rights legality. Let us actively gives perspective to the environment around us to acknowledge and identify this destructive idea and together go against it. I believe, if we hand in hand agree to abolish those acts, it can be gone forever.
But until that day, the fight hasn’t come any closer to the end. There are much to do, so take your role and let’s give our contribution to make the world a better place.
References:
- Asvi Warman Adam, Thomas R. Leinbach. et. al. (2021). Indonesia. Encyclopedi Britanica.
- Jeremy Waldron. (2014). The Harm in Hate Speech. Harvard University Press.
- Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity. (2001). United Nation.
By Kenos Stefanus Siregar
