9/11 Demonstrates Importance of Promoting Diversity

Modesto A. Maidique

It takes but a single moment in history for everything to change. For Florida International University and our nation, that moment was September 11, 2001, a day that will stand as a dividing line between life before and after, with changed policy and practice in virtually every area of life in every part of the world.

Since then, it’s been a time of unprecedented reflection throughout the university. Immediately following September 11, our students, faculty and staff joined together in a variety of events, some organized and others spontaneous, to grieve and share our experiences. Many of us were directly affected by the attacks, losing family members or friends; all of us were touched by the loss of a sense of security we once took for granted. It’s been a time when we find ourselves more thankful than ever for our personal blessings and our way of life, and it’s been a period of searching as we try to understand how this could happen.

While we may never find any clear answers, I believe 9-11 demonstrates more than ever the utmost importance of promoting diversity — and the acceptance and understanding that it instills — at our university and throughout our society.

At FIU, where our student population is multicultural, we celebrate our diversity. It’s an intrinsic element of our richness and strength. We are committed to diversity throughout our institution and foster cross-cultural understanding through comprehensive programs and activities.

We promote diversity because we want to ensure that our students are prepared for 21st century society, which will be distinguished by an increasingly diverse nation and global integration. By embracing and promoting diversity, we can do our part to help build a better society and, hopefully, a more just and safer world.

Modesto A. Maidique