To Blend or Not To Blend
Multicultural societies use various methods to facilitate racial integration. The most common models are the melting pot and salad pot. Both models have their strengths and weaknesses and should be applied in the right context to guarantee effectiveness. The United States is usually referred to as a melting point since over time, generations of immigrants have interweaved with each other; they have abandoned their values and cultures to become completely integrated into American society (Bertsch, 2013). The melting pot model should be applied when a public agency is dealing with the younger generations since they have been raised in a society that does not recognize cultural differences. The youth only desire equal treatment from state agencies irrespective of race, religion, or color.
Cultural diversity, on the other hand, is regarded as a positive aspect of a society. Immigrants are encouraged to maintain their native language and traditions (Bertsch, 2013). This method of racial integration is described as the salad bowl. The model should be adopted by public agencies that facilitate the well-being of the population such as those dealing in health services. Implementing the salad bowl approach enables the agency to recognize the cultural values of an individual so as to provide the services that match their needs.
Overall, the racial integration technique chosen by a public agency depends on the dynamics of the population and services provided. The melting pot method is most suitable for public agencies serving the youth as they have been raised to not recognize cultural differences. On the other hand, the salad bowl is best suited for agencies catering for the well-being of the public. Whichever method is chosen, the agency should ensure that it facilitates harmony and the effective provision of services.
References
Bertsch, A. (2013). The melting pot vs. the salad bowl: A call to explore regional cross-cultural differences and similarities within the USA. Journal of Organizational Culture, Communications and Conflict, 17(1), 131.