The issue of culture is one that has always been a primary concern of all societies. The issue has been particularly highlighted today because of its intensification through globalization and advancements in communications and transportation. In the essay presented by Linda Chavez, there is a realization that multiculturalism and the success of the efforts behind it cannot be evaluated linearly.
According to her, what is critical is “the acquiescence of policy makers and ordinary citizens” to create cultural polices that support diversity and at the same time supports social cohesiveness. Therefore, there is a need to continue affirmative action and at the same time to develop policies that respond to the changing cultural needs of society. Chavez is advocating greater insight into the issue to allow readers the ability to differentiate multiculturalism issue from social, economic and political ones.
Her critique of her opposition indicate her stand that neither polices nor social attitudes have prospered because they have not been able to address the real object of the concern. Instead, the policies have only provided access to less critical migrant population or those that have already been able to establish themselves. Though policies have been instituted, accessibility and sensitivity of the context of the most vulnerable migrant populations has not been sufficient. Chavez’s outline presentation of her arguments makes it easy for readers to follow her arguments.
The strategy allows the assimilation of not only the facts the author is presenting but also the opinion of the author regarding the issue. Another effective strategy of the essay is in the presentation of opposition arguments: recognition of the arguments suggests Chavez’ extensive familiarity with the issue and her professionalism in discussing the issue. In creating counter arguments, the author is directly able to validate her opinion without inviolability and is able to cast doubts on the strength of contradicting opinions.
