The Diversity Iceberg
 
 
Diversity Iceberg (20 minutes) Purpose: To broaden participants’ understanding of the range of personal characteristics included in the term diversity. Instructions: • Explore the different aspects of diversity using the Diversity Iceberg Model. Begin by drawing a large triangle on a sheet of chart paper. • Add curved lines to the triangle to represent the “water line.” Describe the analogy of the iceberg having only 1/8 of its actual mass above water to understanding diversity. Explain that people have only a limited understanding of another person’s identity when they stop at the “surface,” or those characteristics that are readily observable, then elicit from participants identity descriptors that belong “above the water line.” List these characteristics on the chart paper around the upper peak of the iceberg. • Explain that a second group of characteristics include those that are sometimes assumed based on observation or other perceptions (i.e. person wearing a wedding ring or necklace with cross or Star of David). Elicit suggestions for characteristics in this category and write them on the iceberg’s “water line.” • Lastly, explain that many descriptors are not readily observable, but they are important aspects of identity that people often use to describe themselves to others. Elicit suggestions for these characteristics, writing them on the portion of the iceberg that is “below the water line.” • Note that some descriptors may, for some people, fall in different areas of the iceberg. Where would we put religion (if not already mentioned)? National origin? • Acknowledge that one complication of the iceberg model is that some assumed aspects of identity, such as gender, race, etc. are not always accurate. Elicit thoughts and comments from the group. • Conclude by explaining that people’s understanding of diversity is often limited when it is based primarily on race and ethnicity. The iceberg model provides a clear picture of the many aspects of identity that are included in the term diversity. Above the Water Line: Gender, Race, Clothing/Attire, Physical Appearance, Age/Generation, Physical disability On the Water Line: Marital Status, Religion – Spirituality Below the Water Line: Ethnic Background, Nationality, Education, Sexual Orientation, Language, Hobbies Interests, Career/Position, Health, Geographic Origins, Family Roles, etc.
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