Why do some people refer to COVID-19 as the China virus?

During stressful times, people tend to split the world into “us” and “them”, treating one preferred group with greater kindness while behaving badly toward a different group. In the psychology world, this is known as ingroup bias, and it can lead to extreme stereotyping and prejudice. For an example of this, think back to the days after 9/11. Do you remember how some people in the US turned their anger and fear toward Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, and others whom they perceived to be from the Middle East?

To learn more about one person’s experience with in-group bias, see this video by Open Book storyteller, Gurwinder Kapoor:

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How do we prevent prejudice, stereotypes, and fear of differences from spreading?

We get to know people as individuals. Through this, we begin to understand that a single person does not represent an entire ethnic group any more than one person can speak for the entire United States.

CultureALL brings people from diverse backgrounds together to talk, listen, learn and collaborate toward building a stronger society.  When Iowans PARTICIPATE in cultural traditions, they begin to APPRECIATE the diversity around them, ELEVATING their attitudes and behaviors to become more accepting and capable of navigating differences.

In 2001, we didn’t have an antidote to slow the spread of threats, assault, prejudice, and other forms of discrimination. But now we do: CultureALL Ambassadors and Open Books show Iowans the value of our rich diversity.

CultureALL is mobilizing to keep Iowa healthy. We are creating new ways to invite you to connect with the many cultures in our communities. Call us in. We would enjoy meeting your team, your colleagues, AND your students.

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Together, we can stop the spread of prejudice.

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