Multicultural Perspectives

Although the educational system in America has largely been associated with the idea of assimilation, one can see the beginnings of a desire for multiculturalism in the history of American education. One can look, for example, at the work of Jane Addams, the co-founder of Hull House. This establishment catered to European immigrants and offered many social, educational and artistic programs. Although Hull House was tasked with assimilating these immigrants, it did provide a forum in which these immigrants could share their unique multicultural perspectives.

Catherine Beecher, another educational pioneer, also helped to pave the way for multiculturalism in the American classroom. She was a staunch advocate of women's right to education and