Tolerance is a simple three-syllable word. The movement this word represents is not so simple.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, tolerance is defined as the “willingness to accept behavior and beliefs that are different from your own, although you might not agree with or approve of them.”

Tolerance is an essential component of a productive society; remaining intolerant only hinders progress.

On Nov. 22, 2016, a groundskeeper at the Pullman Islamic Center was harassed by three individuals.

It is occurrences such as these where it becomes apparent that a horrifying amount of bigotry and a lack of understanding still exists within our small community.

Any attack based on religion, race or gender identity/expression is both morally and ethically wrong.

We live in a nation comprised of individuals who come from innumerable different backgrounds. Universities in particular are home to students from all walks of life.

“I feel as though tolerance is important,” said freshman Salomon Martinez, “especially here at WSU because this is a university – a place where we should feel safe and not as though we don’t have a place here.”

Students should feel safe, accepted, and as though their personal beliefs are respected.

Everyone has their own personal identity, which can consist of their race, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, etc. No one should feel as though they have to sacrifice a portion of their identity to be accepted.

“That explains the American dream,” declared Fadumo Ali at WSU’s MLK Jr. Public Square Discussion on Jan. 19. “The fact that no one has to compromise anything, (not) their identity (nor) their background.”

Being intolerant doesn’t solely harm the individual you refuse to accept, it also closes you off from the many important and potentially enlightening experiences diversity often brings.

Aside from the personal benefits every person can enjoy, a country’s cumulative culture is enriched by the diverse nature of its inhabitants. This multiculturalism is what makes our country the unique melting-pot many Americans proudly declare it to be.

It is important to practice tolerance with every person you encounter. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and beliefs, no matter how greatly they differ from your own.

Nearly every person is guilty of being intolerant toward something at some point in their life. Though the important part is not to allow oneself to continue being intolerant.

As Ali admitted at the MLK Public Square Discussion, in her freshman year she did not know about the transgender community and wasn’t open-minded about it.

“Instead of closing myself off, I tried to gain more knowledge,” Ali said. “I tried to meet people who were part of GSA.”

Ali understood the importance of accepting all communities, so she educated herself about the LGBTQ community and found a way to accept them. When individuals become more accepting, the entire society benefits.

“Tolerance creates a society in which people can feel valued and respected, and in which there is room for every person, each with their own ideas, thoughts, and dreams” according to Youth for Tolerance.

While intolerance can appear harmless at first, not tolerating someone can soon transform into detesting them.

“Intolerance will drive groups apart, creating a sense of permanent separation between them,” according to Beyond Intractability.

As a result of intolerance, many individuals have been berated, harassed and even physically and mentally assaulted for respectfully expressing their individuality.

Tolerance is essential for unifying our community. We cannot help or care about others if we are not able to tolerate them.

As the French novelist Victor Hugo once said, “tolerance is the best religion.”

Emily Hogan is a freshman genetics and cell biology major from Harrington, Delaware. She can be contacted at 335-2290 or by [email protected]. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the staff of The Daily Evergreen or those of The Office of Student Media.