A "diversity calendar" published by the state Department of Corrections that lists the birthdays of several controversial historical figures, including the Japanese commander who planned the attack on Pearl Harbor, has angered at least one employee and Sen. Jim Honeyford, who called it a "personal affront to veterans."
Honeyford, R-Sunnyside, wrote Corrections Director Harold Clarke requesting an explanation for why the April and May calendars recognize Isoroku Yamamoto, Lenin, Karl Marx and Ho Chi Minh.
The monthly calendars are a part of the department's "workplace diversity program" and are sent to agency employees only. Many state agencies have diversity programs to promote tolerance and understanding of different races, cultures, religions and ethnicities.
When questioned about why these particular individuals were included in the calender Gary Larson, at the Department of Corrections, fell back on the position that "diversity" means "value free:"
"Basically, the purpose of this calendar was meant to be an instructional tool that just lists people who had an impact on the world and provoke thought. The intent was certainly not to be offensive to veterans or anyone else," he said. "One of the goals of diversity is that we co-exist in the world with people we disagree with."
Another figure who was included was Eva Peron. Since honoring fascist demogogues is also diverse, it's surprising they didn't include Adolf Hitler. Hitler's birthday was on April 20 and he certainly had "an impact on the world."
However, even the diversity amoralists have limits. In complaining about the calender Holbrook hit the "reply to all" button. Withing half an hour the "diversity" Gestapo arrived at his office:
"In a half hour, a supervisor showed up at my desk and said my e-mail was an inappropriate use of e-mail."
Holbrook, a union shop steward, said he's not worried about being fired. Larson declined to comment on Holbrook's reprimand.
"Co-existing in the world with people we disagree with," unless the "people" in question are real Americans.
Hat tip: Amritas. Cross posted at The Dougout.
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