Word of the Month: Stereotyping
Welcome to this month’s installment of our Word of the Month series! This time, we’re shining a spotlight on stereotyping—a practice that can limit our understanding and connections with others.
Stereotyping involves making broad, often unfair, assumptions about individuals based on their group identity. Whether it’s based on race, gender, age, or other characteristics, stereotypes simplify and generalize, ignoring the unique qualities of each person. This can lead to discrimination and missed opportunities, both in personal interactions and within larger community settings.
Understanding and challenging stereotypes is essential for fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment. It starts with recognizing our own biases and making a conscious effort to see people as individuals rather than representatives of a group.
As a community, we can deepen our understanding and create an environment where everyone feels valued. Take a few minutes to explore the resources below and uncover how stereotyping affects our interactions and how we can foster a more inclusive community.