What are the challenges of preserving culture in a diverse society?

Colonisation has caused mass incidences of cultural erasure, not erosion. White supremacy continues to hold western ideals in high esteem over other cultures. Until we address the continued colonial mindsets and white supremacy we are always going to have one culture overshadowing others.

As a South Tyrolean, I have experience of different ethnic groups living together. In South Tyrol, Germans, Italians and Ladins now live together peacefully. South Tyrol has a strong autonomy that protects the minorities (Germans and Ladins). It is clear that the language and culture of the state is of course ‘tempting’; for example, new arrivals (especially in the urban centres) learn the state language first. However, I have also seen that it is possible for a population to retain and develop its language and tradition. Ultimately, I am convinced that (i) good coexistence is only possible if the inhabitants of a region do not (have to) disguise themselves and are proud of their tradition and (ii) defend their identity.

I have been lucky enough to have lived, studied and worked in different countries (Italy, Germany, Austria, England,). I have always clearly known who I am and what my identity is. But it was also always clear to me that I would adapt (at least) to the extent that I could participate in social discourse. That means learning the language and adopting customs (at least to the extent) that you don't disturb anyone. For me, this clear requirement for everyone who comes somewhere as a tourist, student or worker has not led to me losing my identity: On the contrary, I've always found it great to be part of a society, to be understood, to take part in discussions and to get involved.

As a South Tyrolean, I can say a few things on this subject: South Tyrol was oppressed and terrorised by fascism and attempts were made to assimilate the population. I can say that this cruelty should be absolutely rejected. As a South Tyrolean myself, I have always been in favour of preserving our culture. On the other hand, I have also experienced how great it is to be accepted into a society and to have the feeling of being part of a society, a feeling I had in Italy, Germany, England and Austria. During my time in London, I lived together with Serbs, Egyptians, Poles and Chinese (in a very small space) without any problems, because we all understood that we were guests in a country and we all felt comfortable.

When it comes to language, one thing is clear to me: everyone should keep their identity and their language and be proud of it, BUT everyone must learn the language of the country they want to live and work in as soon as possible. This is essential because otherwise I can never be part of society and cannot integrate. It is reasonable for everyone to do everything they can to take this step, also in their own interest.

I am convinced that successful integration means that everyone contributes their experience and culture to a society and abides by the rules. In my opinion, it is not the task of society to support every event. In a figurative sense, a society should leave room for everyone to be colorful, but you have to bring your own color.

Saludos! Si de preservar en sí, como práctica común vital se trata la cultura, todos los seis antes descritos factores son esenciales. Pero dentro de sus respectivas 'condiciones copartícipes vinculantes'. Esto, nos alinea por defecto a la natural instrucción experimental (pienso-existo - existo-pienso) muy bien asimilada por Saint-Simon y resto de positivistas, y magistralmente implementada por el padre de la Lingüística Estructural "Ferdinand De Saussure" con lo que, representa pilar fundamental hasta hoy, tanto en lo relativo a la influencia del Estructuralismo en Ciencias Sociales, como en las relaciones- desarrollo humanos. Pero hablamos de Filosofía tradicional. Y acá urge el ya! Entonces: se trata de integración-acción + innovación.