Assimilation Policy – Definition and Explanation

Understanding Assimilation Policy: Definition, Examples, and Implications

In the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Assimilation Policy stands as a significant concept with profound implications. 

Definition:

Assimilation Policy refers to a governmental or institutional approach that encourages or enforces the integration of individuals or groups from diverse backgrounds into the dominant culture. It often entails adopting the norms, values, language, and practices of the dominant group, sometimes at the expense of one’s own cultural identity.

Explanation:

Assimilation Policies historically have been employed by governments and institutions as a means of fostering unity and social cohesion. However, critics argue that such policies can perpetuate cultural hegemony, marginalise minority groups, and stifle diversity.

One example of Assimilation Policy can be observed in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Americanisation movement aimed to assimilate immigrants into the dominant Anglo-American culture. This involved promoting English language proficiency, adopting American customs, and discouraging the practice of minority languages and traditions. While proponents viewed it as a means of fostering national unity, detractors criticised it for erasing cultural diversity and perpetuating discrimination.

Implications:

Assimilation Policies carry significant implications for individuals and society as a whole. While they may promote social cohesion, they can also lead to the suppression of cultural identities, erasure of heritage languages, and the marginalisation of minority groups. Moreover, they can exacerbate existing inequalities and hinder efforts towards true diversity and inclusion.

In contemporary discourse, the efficacy of Assimilation Policies is a subject of debate. Many advocate for more inclusive approaches that celebrate diversity while fostering a sense of belonging for all individuals, irrespective of their cultural backgrounds.

Conclusion:

Assimilation Policy represents a complex and contentious aspect of DEI efforts. While historically employed with the intention of promoting unity, its consequences on cultural diversity and inclusion warrant critical examination. Moving forward, fostering genuine diversity and equity requires a nuanced approach that respects and celebrates the richness of all cultures.

References:

Feir, D. L. (2016). The long‐term effects of forcible assimilation policy: The case of Indian boarding schools. Canadian Journal of Economics/Revue canadienne d’économique, 49(2), 433-480. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/caje.12203

Crowder, M. (2023). Senegal: a study of French assimilation policy. Taylor & Francis. https://books.google.co.uk/books?hl=en&lr=&id=ELXIEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT8&dq=Assimilation+Policy&ots=jQmLkLH_7P&sig=DHgNJq2RbfiIOKQXdF-baiZ6G5E#v=onepage&q=Assimilation%20Policy&f=false

Ellinghaus, K. (2022). Blood will tell: Native Americans and assimilation policy. U of Nebraska Press. https://books.google.co.uk/books?hl=en&lr=&id=PKZhEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PR9&dq=Assimilation+Policy&ots=ENKUascR4B&sig=-q8x3wZ83LIuMHEK6wBsOWXL4Iw#v=onepage&q=Assimilation%20Policy&f=false