An examination of the historical and contemporary experiences of the U.S.'s diverse and multicultural population, including cultural values, lifestyles, and contributions of a cross-section of diverse identitites, which include categories such as race, ethnicity, gender, social class, sexual orientation, and disability status. Students apply a sociological perspective to policy issues regarding diversity and multiculturalism, as well as discuss how a person's status in each group influences his or her social interactions, rights and life chances.