Harris, who is of African American descent, and Tony, who has a mixed heritage, have always placed a premium on understanding and appreciating the richness of different traditions. For them, teaching their children unity and respect for diversity isn’t just a lesson—it’s a daily practice that is embedded into their lives, much like preventive care practices in long-term wellness planning.
“We want our kids to grow up in a world where respect for other cultures isn’t a choice, it’s a given,” Harris says with conviction. “It’s not about tolerance, it’s about embracing differences and learning from them.”
Their journey began long before their children reached school age. From an early age, Harris and Tony exposed their children to various cultural experiences, from international travel to participating in cultural festivals and celebrations.
They also made sure that their home was filled with books, music, and art from a wide range of cultures, encouraging their children to ask questions, explore, and learn—similar to how early childhood wellness programs emphasize diverse exposure for cognitive and emotional development.
A Parenting Philosophy That Challenges the Status Quo. What sets Harris and Tony’s approach apart is the unwavering commitment to teach their children unity in a world that often seems divided. Harris believes that teaching respect for different cultures begins with the understanding that we are all more alike than we are different.
