Cultural diversity refers to the presence of different cultures and cultural groups in a society, workplace, or educational institution. It involves recognizing, respecting, and valuing the differences between cultures and creating an environment that celebrates them. Cultural diversity can take several meanings, including:

• A balance to be achieved: the idea of defense of cultural diversity through the promotion of actions in favor of "cultural minorities" said to be disadvantaged.
• Preservation of "cultural minorities" thought to be endangered.
• Recognizing that there is a large amount of cultures that exist.
• Respecting each other’s differences.
• Acknowledging that all cultural expressions are valid.
• Valuing what cultures have to bring to the table.
• Empowering diverse groups to contribute.
• Celebrating differences, not just tolerating them.

Cultural diversity is important because it helps us understand different perspectives within the world in which we live, and helps dispel negative stereotypes and personal biases about different groups. It also supports the idea that every person can make a unique and positive contribution to the larger society because of, rather than in spite of, their differences. Cultural diversity can be promoted by individual citizens in the ways they choose to express or experience culture, as well as by governments and international bodies through actions at international, national, and local levels.