iSpeak on Diversity

People are clannish and cliquish by nature. Diversity therefore must be encouraged. People need encouragement to open themselves to new experiences like different cultures, religions, ethnic groups, and different belief systems and, in 1199, different healthcare workers. Despite diversity, people can still find a common ground to unite and wield incredible power.

Miss Holder, Physician Assistant
Brookdale Hospital
Brooklyn, NY

We are all different but equal! This concept must be clearly fostered understood, and demonstrated, and 1199 must be the pioneers! It works against unity when there is no total buy-in from leadership.

Debora L. Hunte, Professional and Technical specialist
1199SEIU
New York, NY

I do not agree. Diversity will work against unity when the people are selfish and narrow-minded. There is strength in diversity because every group’s strenght is brought together to form a formidable force.

Theresa Oseni, Nursing Attendant
NY Presbyterian Hospital
New York, NY

Do you mean diversity as in different races and nationalities?  If so, I think now it should occur naturally. Affirmative action has been around now for 30 years.  Everyone has an opportunity to get an education and compete for jobs.  If the person is qualified, and is the best candidate for a particular position, they should get the job.

Lavie Paller, Registration and Billing
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
The Bronx, NY

I do not agree. Because that's what makes our union stronger.

Anibal Sostre Jr, Storeroom Man/Cook Helper
Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center
The Bronx, NY

I do not agree. On the contrary, diversity should work for the Union.  Diversity means differences, but it also means enrichment.  What I mean is that in real life each person is unique. This is a given -- whether it be personal characteristics or culture. What a boring world it would be if all of us are the same. It is one of the things that make life interesting. 

Despite differences, we have common basic rights as human beings and we need to also accept this. We all want to be respected, appreciated, and recognized that we can contribute something positive to our Union, our workplace, our community, and society as a whole. Each human being should be given the opportunity to develop his/her own potential. Respect for diversity is therefore essential.

Crisanta A Rockwell, RN
St. Vincent's Midtown Medical Center
New York, NY

It depends on what you are relating this to. If we are Union members, then we are united. There should not be such a question. If this presents a problem for some Union members, then they should leave the Union, go work for someone else and see if the benefits and support groups are there to help you The Union has made it possible for me to raise two wonderful daughters who have made their contribution to our society as Americans They continue to utilize the skills that masters’ degrees have afforded them. Thank you much.

Helena Prisco, Mental Health worker
Maimonides Hospital
Brooklyn, NY

I agree. Diversity is learned as a child in your home and schools. Our parents and teachers need to be more diverse themselves when they are teaching and bringing us up. If that doesn't happen, a human being is more closed minded about it when they grow to be an adult. We adults who understand diversity are responsible in our adult years to educate those who don't understand its importance.

Unity is the key to winning any fight, and if we cannot work together as a unified front, we will lose even the smallest of fights. Those of us that understand diversity and the importance of a diverse society should commit to educating our brothers and sisters that don't understand. It is our duty!!

Sharin Thomson, Organizer
1199SEIU
Long Island, NY