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What is required is a new mindset and a change of heart, to be able to see the person across the ocean as our neighbour. Finally, I have hope because of what I see in my children, and some of their generation. I took my first trip abroad at the age of 19. My children were even more fortunate than I. They had their first exposure to foreign culture as infants, and they were raised in a multicultural environment. And I can say absolutely that my son and daughter are oblivious to colour and race and nationality. They see no difference between their friends Noriko, Mafupo, Justin, Saulo and Hussam; to them, they are only fellow human beings and good friends. Globalization, through travel, media and communication, can also help us - as it has with my children and many of their peers - to see each other simply as human beings.

Mohamed ElBaradei#31

GlobalizationAcceptanceDiversityEducation

About this quote

What does it mean?
A mindset shift to view global others as neighbors is needed. Children raised in multicultural environments naturally see each other as equals.
In plain terms
Children naturally accept diversity when raised together.
What can you take from it?
Foster multicultural environments to reduce bias.

Where it applies

  • parenting
  • education
  • community building

Putting it to work

  • promote diversity
  • teach empathy
  • encourage travel

Questions to consider

  • How do children learn acceptance?
  • Why do we see difference?

Another view

Deeply ingrained prejudices may resist early exposure.

More from Mohamed ElBaradei

  1. I have hope because civil society is becoming better informed and more engaged. They are pressing their governments for change - to create democratic societies…

    Permalink to quote #30
  2. Imagine what would happen if the nations of the world spent as much on development as on building the machines of war. Imagine a world where every human being …

    Permalink to quote #32
  3. The picture I have painted today may have seemed somewhat grim. Let me conclude by telling you why I have hope. I have hope because the positive aspects of glo…

    Permalink to quote #29

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