Tolerance is a word often used in conjunction with culture, lifestyle choices, beliefs and traditions. The intent is to make people
aware of how they are acting toward others who are different and encourage them to change their behavior. Every year on November 16, since 1996, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day for Tolerance directing its attention to educational establishments and the general public.
At the 2009 celebrations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “Tolerance does not mean indifference or a 
grudging acceptance of others. It is a way of life based on mutual understanding and respect for others, and on the belief that global diversity is to be embraced, not feared.”
This might be enough for some, but I would argue that it is not the best word to use when trying to change interaction among people. Merriam-Webster defines tolerance as
1) capacity to endure pain or hardship : endurance, fortitude, stamina 2) a : sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting with one’s own b : the act of allowing something : toleration
I wholeheartedly believe that our choice of words to express ourselves influences our opinions and approach to aspects of life. Differences in cultures, beliefs, lifestyles and traditions are often used as the reasons for hateful acts and speech as well as a means of finding a scapegoat or culprit for a problem. From a young age, people need to be taught and shown that life can be lived in a myriad of ways.
Reading the above definition makes it sound as if interacting with others is a hard task (enduring pain or hardship) and one that requires a great effort. It makes me think of something negative or undesirable, but at the same time something that is expected in
society. The person exercising tolerance gives the impression of superiority by allowing the (insert group here) to interact with him/ her or to even exist.
I think the intention of those who support tolerance is sincere, but I believe the words should be changed. The path, instead, should be paved with the desire to learn about, explore, understand, experience, embrace, encourage and respect people of different cultures, beliefs, lifestyles and traditions. In order to create a positive and welcoming world positive and welcoming words should be used. Once we change the words we use, we can change the way we approach an issue.
Or is it enough that immigrants (whether “legal” or not), students, homosexuals, women or just you are merely tolerated?
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To learn more about Nicolle,
visit NAMK Photography.
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and should not be understood to be shared by Being Latino, Inc.
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About Nicolle Morales Kern
Great post Nicholle, and I agree. Because words are power and affect the way we see things
I had this discussion about the word “discover”, in the context of Columbus “discovering” America – it implies that the peoples living there were not aware of their existence before the Europeans “enlightend” them. As many do now, I believe we should use the words “meetings” or “encounters” instead.
Well targeted point
I practice acceptance.
Wonderful Article Nicolle!!! You Go!!! I always say the same thing…in fact I go further and say that I wipe my behind with other peoples “Tolorance”. I give Respect and I don’t settle for anything less than that. Right On!!
I couldn’t agree more… Whether you agree with something or not, we should respect.
IT is my opinion that dignity is lost when we “tolerate” anything that should in fact be respected- regardless of whether we accept it or not.
I appreciate this perspective on tolerance. Thank you for providing the lens!
Excellent share & post here Nicole thank you… “It takes each of us to allow everyone of us the opportunity to burn & shine bright.” Sean McCullough Let your light shine bright Nicole… A master key word that should always be associated & next to tolerance is acceptance… God bless you & your entire family my co-work smith… Sean & family
Thank you all, I’m glad you enjoyed this post. It is interesting how the words we use shape our attitudes.
This is what I have thought even back in school when we were learning about “Tolerance”. It’s the wrong word.
You tolerate a crying child in a waiting room. You tolerate a friend when they’re late. It’s the wrong word for the meaning they want to convey. “Understanding” should be the word used. Understanding other people and why they do different things then you. When I was young in kindergarten we had a bully who would pull my pigtails. I’d tell the teacher they told me to tolerate it. Point being; Annoyance, pain, and discomfort should be tolerate. Not a human-being.
Very well-said Amanda. Different cultures and ways of living and humans are not to be compared with pain, annoyance and discomfort. That only sets the stage for ill feelings and hatred.
Brilliant article! Such is the case with “race.” Last I checked, race was a competition to determine who is the fastest; I’ve said a mouthful. A little bit of grammar goes a long way. I’m with Eileen and Amanda on this one…Acceptance/Understanding. Stellar work Nicolle, just stellar.
Thanks Arlene