We believe that diversity makes the world a more beautiful place. At South Hyland Pet Hospital, we’re committed to serving people and their pets, no matter what. Our team also strives to promote equity and equality through our community work and activism, mentoring future veterinarians, and hiring a diverse team. If you’ve been wondering how you can participate and celebrate diversity during the month of April, read on to learn more:
1. Patron Minority & Women-Owned Businesses
One of the most fun and easiest ways to support diversity is by supporting local businesses with minority owners and those that employ a diverse staff. Try eating at some new restaurants or shopping at a different clothing store. Be sure to leave these business positive reviews to promote others to use them, as well.
2. Honor Those That Made Strides for Inclusion
The veterinary field is led by women. As of the past few years, veterinary schools have recorded that 8-out-10 doctors of veterinary medicine (DVMs) are women. Of course, women’s success in the veterinary field wouldn’t have been possible without the courage of those that came before us.
One that we’d like to highlight is Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb, DVM. She made a huge impact on the world and inclusion of women in the veterinary sciences.
Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb became the first black woman to graduate from veterinary school and first to be licensed in 1949. She went on to found the School of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University. She has inspired countless women to follow in her footsteps and help pets and their people have better lives.
3. Explore the Diverse Heritage and Culture of Minnesota
Our state and city are rich in cultural diversity. From the Dakota to Ojibwe peoples that still call the state home to refugees groups of Hmong, Somali, and Mexican peoples that we’ve invited to live in our communities, our state offers you and your kids a unique opportunity to learn about other cultures.
Try stopping at Midtown’s Global Market for some new family favorite dishes. Visiting the Hmongtown Marketplace is another amazing way to learn about other cultures and try some tasty dishes.
The Somali Museum of Minnesota offers the whole family a fun way to learn about Somali art and culture.
4. Research a Different Culture with the Kids
Take a few days this month and dedicate them to researching other cultures with your little ones. Have your kids complete a treasure hunt by having them learn about all the elements of another culture. Be sure to include:
- Symbols
- Foods
- Clothing
- Values
- Major religions
- Language
- Art
Once they’ve correctly recorded another culture’s elements, watch a movie or prepare a dish from that culture.
5. Use Your Screen Time to Learn More
When you find yourself scrolling on Facebook or Reddit, remind yourself that your time could be better spent. Educating yourself on how to be more inclusive, how to support struggling minorities, and how to be an ally is a great way to use your phone.
- Try reading perspectives that are unlike your own.
- Choose a random country and read about its history and current affairs.
- Look into non-profits and ways you can give back in our community.
We Hope You Will Honor Diversity Month Every Month
Let this April be just the beginning of your journey. Promoting diversity is a year-long job that we can all participate in. Next time you come in, we hope you will let us know how you honored Diversity Month. South Hyland is proud to be a woman-owned business that gives back and strives to promote inclusion and diversity. We’re proud to serve the South Twin Cities area and the diverse population that makes our community stronger.
