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Cathedral Dean Samuel T. Lloyd III interviews Michel Martin, who hosts the new NPR show “Tell Me More.” In this fast-paced discussion, Martin reflects on the difficulties of achieving harmonious diversity in the United States today. She asks people to observe “who is being talked to…today” in major media. Except for Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, people of color are unlikely to appear on Sunday morning talk shows and in other places where authoritative opinions are featured.

Martin also discusses the standard media approach of presenting viewpoints A and B. “What else is there to say that perhaps isn’t being said?” she asks. Her interest lies in going beyond these two (often opposing) sides, A and B, and exploring viewpoints usually unheard, sides C, D, and E.

She cautions, however, “I sometimes think we minimize how difficult diversity really is.” The impulse to minimize differences, even out of goodwill, can compound already problematic discussions. “We do ourselves a disservice when we act like it’s easy. It really is hard” to achieve understanding amid diversity.

Martin, a former seminarian, offers a simple example of problems that crop up when people are faced with, say, an unfamiliar social cue. She recalls a preaching class in which one student chose to preach while sitting on a stool. African American students in the class had never seen this practice and considered it very disrespectful. Only later did they learn that this is a traditional way to preach, a way of promoting intimacy, used in some community churches.

The example shows the discomfort that can result when differences are brought to the fore. “You realize that you have opinions that you didn’t even know you have, until you are confronted with difference,” says Martin.

About the Guest

Michel Martin is host of Tell Me More, a new National Public Radio program focusing on multiculturalism in America. In more than 25 years in journalism, she has reported for ABC’s Nightline, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal, earning numerous honors for her work, including television’s Emmy Award. Among many other endeavors, Martin has pursued graduate work in religion at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

• More about Michel Martin.

• Visit Tell Me More, listen to programs, and read Michel’s blog.
• Listen to “Faith Matters” segments on Tell Me More.
• Listen to Michel Martin’s NPR interview with Dean Lloyd and Graham Nash about the October 16 Pray for Peace benefit concert at the Cathedral.