Diversity-speak = happy talk?

Americans couch feelings about race in 'happy talk' of diversity-speakAccording to a new study by researchers in the University of Minnesota's sociology department, Americans are generally positive--even optimistic--about the word 'diversity,' but when asked, even those working in the field of race relations have trouble describing diversity's value and stumble when giving real life examples.

The desire to appear color-blind leads most Americans to prefer the standardized language of diversity-speak when addressing issues of race, rather than the other way around. The researchers conclude that American diversity-speak is a sort of 'happy talk,' an upbeat language in which everyone has a place, everyone is welcome and even celebrated.Comment:  It's hard to think of examples of diversity's value? No, it's easy.

Example: If we understood Muslims better, we might not have launched a disastrous war in Iraq. We might have saved thousands of lives and billions of dollars.

Example: If we understood American Indians better, we might uphold their treaties and sovereign rights. That would give them additional resources to pursue economic development and combat social ills.