Embracing Diversity

In a world of diversity around religion, race, ethnicity, interests and ideologies, tolerance is integral to peace and stability. Recognition, respect, acceptance, and the vast diversity of cultures, expressions, and human experiences around the world are the foundations of tolerance. Through migration, travel, and even the internet, people from different backgrounds and cultures are continually in contact. Tolerance thus becomes crucial in bridging gaps and resolving the problems resulting from human interactions.

Individually, practising tolerance entails developing empathy and recognition of others’ uniqueness. It necessitates putting aside preconceived conceptions and being open to new viewpoints, even if they contradict one’s reality. Tolerance also entails speaking out against prejudice and injustice, solidarity with marginalised people, and promoting an inclusive and equal society. The importance of religious and ethnic tolerance in Nigeria today cannot be overstated. Conflicts between communities and identity groups can be avoided or reduced. As individuals are naturally varied, tolerance is one of the ways to maintain the peaceful co-existence of heterogeneous societies.

Promoting a tolerant culture is an important step towards guaranteeing a peaceful society. This might be accomplished by instilling tolerance in all levels of schooling. Lessons from past events such as the Holocaust, which involved the genocide of European Jews by Nazi Germany and their collaborators, should instil respect for human rights on a global scale. On the national level, lessons from Nigeria’s civil war and various identity-related violence might emphasise the destructive nature of violent conflicts and the necessity for peaceful settlements, compromises, and mutual respect. Thus, education and advocacy are critical for building tolerance and minimising discrimination and violence.

Additionally, tolerance acts as a check on the rise of extremism, intolerance, and prejudice. By fostering an environment of respect and understanding, societies can effectively combat the tendencies of intolerance and prejudice that frequently result in violent conflicts and violations of human rights. Intolerant attitudes and the rejection of harmful stereotypes are fostered by tolerance, which opens the door to important advancements in society.

Tolerance promotion is especially important in global citizenship and international relations. Nations and communities must manage complicated geopolitical realities that bring together varied cultures, traditions, and worldviews in an increasingly linked world. Tolerance is thus essential for preserving peaceful and productive contact between countries and ensuring that global collaboration is founded on mutual respect and understanding.

Tolerance remains the cornerstone of a society where everyone is cherished and respected. It is a virtue that crosses cultural and religious lines, cultivating empathy, understanding, and tolerance for difference. Through promoting tolerance and creating a society where everyone can live with freedom and dignity, the root causes of violent conflict and injustice can be addressed. As the world marked the International Day of Tolerance on 16th November 2023, there must be some recommitment to building a society that values and respects every person, regardless of background or views. By collaborating to create welcoming communities and promote understanding, a foundation for a society where everyone can live with respect and dignity, regardless of their differences, can be created.