Sara Ting: Illuminating a Path Towards a More Harmonious and Equitable World
The journey toward genuine diversity and inclusion requires more than just policies and laws; it demands a profound transformation within individuals and society as a whole. This transformation often begins with a single powerful message, one that transcends barriers and inspires collective action. At the heart of this movement lies the Sun Poem, a poignant piece that challenges us to reflect on our shared humanity and the biases that divide us.
The Sun Poem serves as a catalyst for self-examination, urging individuals to confront their own biases and embrace the idea that true equality is an ongoing journey. Leading this initiative is Sara Ting, a visionary and advocate for social change who founded World Unity, Inc. in response to the transformative power of her poem. Sara has dedicated her life to promoting the message of the Sun Poem, leveraging it as a tool for education, awareness, and empowerment.
From Resentment to Redemption
In 1987, a young woman shared her experience of seeing the poem displayed on a poster at the YWCA in Boston. The poem, which addresses themes of equality and inclusivity—“Are you greater than the sun that shines on everyone: Black, Brown, Yellow, Red and White; the sun does not discriminate”—initially stirred feelings of resentment in her as it reminded her of the discrimination she faced as an Asian American in Boston. However, after repeatedly encountering the poem, she realized she needed to let go of her past grievances and embrace forgiveness. This moment of transformation inspired Sara to consider the broader implications of forgiveness, particularly in regions like the Middle East.
This story catalyzed the founding of World Unity, Inc in 1993 and the vision to create a permanent landmark that would showcase the Sun Poem to the world. Sara believes that such a landmark, along with the initiatives of World Unity, is more necessary now than ever. She emphasizes that while laws and policies can address biases, it is individuals who must actively work to overcome their unconscious biases. The Sun Poem serves as a catalyst for this internal change, encouraging individuals to embrace humility and empowerment.
Sara’s initiatives are bold and innovative. For instance, in 2014, she sponsored a national songwriting contest that resulted in the creation of “We All See the Stars” by John Ciambriello. This song was performed at the United Nations in 2015, leading to the “Singing Equality” movement across America and beyond. She has received heartwarming feedback from children who sing the song, expressing feelings of inspiration and the belief that it can help eradicate discrimination.
Additionally, Sara is promoting the Sun Poem as a resource for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), encouraging individuals to become more self-aware and recognize our shared humanity. Through her transformative initiatives, she aims to shift human consciousness towards a deeper understanding of humanity, urging individuals to appreciate the unique beauty of each person.
Now more than ever this landmark and World Unity Inc. initiatives and mission are needed. Sara states, “laws, policies and technology cannot eliminate biases unconscious biases all humans have. Individuals must remove them. The Sun Poem can ignite the change that must come from within.” Other stories have been shared of how the poem opened a mind, taught humility and empowered. Millions don’t know the poem exist and it’s been out now since 1985 when it first became public in a city-wide multimedia public service campaign promoting racial and ethnic harmony throughout Boston. The campaign was so successful it was duplicated in New York City.
Keeping the Truth of Equality Alive
The Sun Poem, as described by Sara Ting, is a timeless and universal work that conveys a transformative message of equality and inclusivity. Its global relevance is undeniable; as long as the sun shines, its message will endure. Everyone on the planet can relate to the sun, making the poem accessible to all. When individuals fully embrace the poem and contemplate its central question—“Are you greater than the sun that shines on everyone?”—they begin to cultivate a new awareness of equality.
According to Sara, the sun shines on everyone, transcending barriers such as gender, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, and religion. This universal illumination eliminates sexism, racism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination. The poem empowers individuals to recognize their shared humanity, which is where the focus must begin. It fosters values such as compassion, kindness, generosity, forgiveness, and love.
Sara envisions the Sun Poem as a permanent landmark to keep the truth of equality alive and to inspire future generations. The design concept was developed through a competition held at the Boston Architectural College. Standing approximately 40 feet tall, the landmark is intended to symbolize the oneness of humanity. The poem will be prominently showcased at its base, inviting visitors to look upward toward the open sky—a space that mirrors the embracing nature of the sun itself.
By establishing this landmark, Sara aims to create a lasting reminder of the collective responsibility to promote unity and non-discrimination. It will serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, encouraging individuals to reflect on their own roles in fostering a more inclusive world.
A Symphony of Change Through Song and Solidarity
Sara Ting engages with communities by reaching out directly to leaders and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) directors in institutions, organizations, and local and state agencies. She commends their leadership and commitment to DEI initiatives while introducing them to World Unity, Inc., its mission, and the Sun Poem. One of the key programs, “Singing Equality across America and around the World,” focuses on youth, aiming to plant the seeds of equality among students in schools. Sara believes that teaching children about equality through song is particularly effective.
A memorable experience from this campaign occurred during the launch when a teacher was so moved by the song that she included sign language in her lessons. She taught the children how to perform the verses in sign language, leading to a heartwarming video of over 400 students performing the song with sign language. This inspired another school, resulting in a video of 800 students in New Haven, Connecticut, also singing the song and incorporating sign language.
Launching the national campaign to promote the Sun Poem as a message of equality for all is typically a two- to three-month project. During this time, Sara contacts companies directly, presenting the Sun Poem and asking if they would consider donating billboard space for the poem. In 2024, during the third annual campaign, something remarkable happened. It started in Tennessee with an email from a company offering eight billboard spaces. This was followed by emails from a Massachusetts company donating nine spaces, and others from Atlanta, Georgia, and Kansas City, each contributing ten. By the end of three months, a total of 74 digital billboards had been donated across America to promote the Sun Poem, showcasing the collective effort to spread its message of unity and equality.
Turning Perceptions into Pathways for Empowerment
As a diversity and inclusion trainer since 1985, Sara identifies a common misconception that many people may not realize everyone has biases, as it is a natural part of human conditioning. She emphasizes that having biases does not make someone a terrible person. To address this, Sara invites participants to reflect on how biases are learned over time.
Another misconception she encounters is the perception that diversity and inclusion training is punitive rather than an opportunity for professional development. Sara works to shift this mindset by engaging participants in discussions that help them recognize the personal and professional benefits of the training. She encourages them to see how becoming more aware of their biases can lead to greater success and effectiveness in a diverse workplace that includes varied racial, gender, religious identities, sexual orientations, and ways of thinking. Through these conversations, Sara aims to create a more positive and constructive approach to diversity and inclusion training.
As a poet-in-residence, Sara Ting worked with elementary students, which profoundly influenced her approach to teaching and community engagement. Each class required her to develop creative methods to engage students, ensuring that every lesson served as a building block for the next. This experience empowered her to discover innovative ways to connect with the community while staying grounded in her humanity and authentic voice. Through these interactions, she learned the importance of creativity and adaptability in fostering meaningful relationships and inspiring others.
Amplifying Asian American Voices
During her ten-year career as a freelance TV reporter, Sara Ting focused on significant social issues affecting Asian American communities, including AIDS and domestic violence. She emphasized not only identifying these problems but also offering potential solutions. For instance, by featuring a young Filipino gay man discussing his experience with AIDS, she aimed to break the silence within the Asian community and empower others to share their stories.
Sara’s reporting had a broader impact, as her presence as an Asian American journalist brought visibility to issues affecting the Asian American community. Her work contributed to giving this community a voice in the media. Notably, one of her editors remarked that prior to collaborating with her, he had never edited a story about an Asian American, highlighting the lack of representation in the industry during the 1990s. Through her efforts, Sara not only raised awareness but also fostered a greater understanding of the challenges faced by Asian Americans.
Striving for an Inclusive Future
Sara believes that creating sustainable change in promoting racial and ethnic harmony begins with acknowledging that all individuals have unconscious biases, a natural aspect of human conditioning influenced by one’s family, school, community, and country. These biases can significantly impact the culture within schools, workplaces, and communities. She asserts that while laws, policies, and technology are important, they cannot eliminate biases; it is ultimately up to individuals to address them.
In the realm of education, Sara emphasizes the importance of asking fundamental questions about what it means to be human and what equality truly entails. She references Madame Curie, who noted, “We cannot hope to build a better world without improving the individual,” highlighting the need for personal growth.
Sara believes that all efforts must start with educating individuals to become more self-aware and raising the collective consciousness to recognize our shared humanity. Quoting Einstein, she states, “You cannot solve a problem with the same consciousness that created it. You must stand on a higher ground.” She sees the Sun Poem as a catalyst for igniting this essential change, encouraging individuals to embrace its message and reflect on their own biases to elevate their level of consciousness.
Melodies of Change
Sara has had the privilege of collaborating with educators who deeply resonate with her initiatives, such as “Singing Equality across America and Around the World” and the TEDx Talk “Uncover and Overcome All Unconscious Biases.” She views these educators as trailblazers and open-minded leaders willing to explore innovative ideas beyond their communities.
The success of these partnerships stems from a genuine openness to listen and engage with new concepts. There was no need to convince educators of the program’s effectiveness; once students experienced the song, the positive response was immediate and overwhelming. One teacher noted that after introducing the song to older students, she found that half of a younger class already knew it because their siblings had taught them.
In another instance, an educator took the initiative to have an unscheduled two-hour conversation with Sara, she recommended her TEDx Talk Uncover and Overcome All Unconscious Biases be presented in a teacher training session. It was and the teachers were so inspired by the Sun Poem that they created a five-foot-high paper collage. They then introduced the poem to their students, who produced beautiful artwork displayed at the city’s annual art exhibit. This collaboration led to the establishment of the Sun Poem Art Project as part of their curriculum, impacting over 15,500 students.
Addressing Unconscious Biases
Sara is particularly excited about the growing momentum behind the TEDx Talk “Uncover and Overcome All Unconscious Biases” as a DEI resource tool. This initiative, which is offered free of charge, aims to empower individuals to become more self-aware and address their unconscious biases through reflection on the Sun Poem. In her talk, she shares the compelling story of how the Sun Poem originated and its profound impact on two individuals.
Notably, two global companies, Merck and AECOM, along with the City of Revere, Massachusetts, and Midwestern University, a medical school, have already adopted the talk as a DEI resource. Sara hopes to see more organizations and cities embrace this initiative at local, national, and global levels, furthering the mission of World Unity, Inc.
Orchestrating Harmony Through Words and Faith
As a visionary and innovator in the diversity and inclusion (D&I) space, Sara is driven by a profound understanding of equality. She believes that while laws, policies, and technology can pave the way for progress, the onus ultimately lies with individuals to confront and remove their own biases and prejudices. Central to her mission is the Sun Poem, which she sees as a catalyst for inner change. Sara draws inspiration from Mother Teresa’s poignant words about the impact of prejudice, noting that “being unwanted is the worst disease any human being can experience.” In her view, the Sun Poem acts as a vaccine against this disease, addressing all forms of discrimination and empowering the marginalized while challenging those who may act as though they are greater than others.
Sara finds motivation in the powerful responses to the Sun Poem, the TEDx Talk titled “Uncover and Overcome All Unconscious Biases,” and particularly in the enthusiastic reactions from students to the song “We All See the Stars.” She recalls the uplifting comments from children: one noted, “When I sing the song, it makes me feel like I can do anything,” while another expressed, “I feel inspired every time I sing the song.” A child named Annie added, “One day the world will hear this song and it will stop discrimination.” These affirmations fuel her resolve to expand the program’s reach globally.
Moreover, Sara is encouraged by endorsements from influential figures, such as a billboard company president who remarked, “Keep up your amazing mission; the world needs this.” This recognition reinforces her commitment to her work. She acknowledges the invaluable support of her dedicated team, comprising only 1.5 people, which has enabled her organization to endure for 30 years.
Financial support from companies, individuals, and grants have been crucial for the continuation of her initiatives. Sara expresses gratitude for the generosity of her sponsors, some of whom have supported her efforts for over two decades.
Lastly, her deep faith in God serves as a foundation for her perseverance. She cherishes the belief that “with God, all things are possible,” and holds onto the conviction that where there seems to be no way, God will indeed make a way.
Quest for an Inclusive Tomorrow
Sara offers insightful advice for individuals and organizations seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities regarding diversity and inclusion. She is inspired by empowering quotes, particularly from Socrates, who famously said, “To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.” Sara emphasizes that self-knowledge is essential, stating that an unexamined life is not worth living. Einstein’s quote has also been a guiding force for her to persevere and create a more inclusive tomorrow, he said, “You cannot solve a problem with the same consciousness that created it. You must stand on a higher ground.” She believes the Sun Poem can be the catalyst to take people to the higher level of consciousness, illuminate their minds and hearts.
For individuals, she stresses that self-awareness is the cornerstone of making a difference in diversity and inclusion. People should take the time to understand what triggers them and confront their own biases, recognizing that this is an ongoing journey. When individuals transform themselves, they can positively influence every interaction they have with others. Sara encourages individuals to be willing to listen to viewpoints that challenge their own and to step outside their comfort zones. Each time they do, they free themselves from fears, becoming more fearless in the process. She notes that many people are unaware of how much they limit themselves and the enriching experiences they miss out on by not overcoming their biases. “Every time I step outside my house, it’s an adventure,” she shares, expressing her joy in meeting new people and making a difference in their lives. Sometimes, she explains, this difference can be as simple as genuinely listening with an open mind and heart. Furthermore, she highlights the importance of nurturing one’s spiritual dimension, stating that doing so empowers individuals to navigate the challenges of diversity and inclusion while allowing them to be their authentic selves. “If you are not going to be yourself, how will anyone ever know the real you?” she asks.
For organizations, Sara advises ensuring that their values, initiatives, mission, and vision are aligned with diversity and inclusion principles. It is vital for leaders, particularly Presidents and CEOs, to possess self-awareness, confront their own biases, and recognize that the journey toward inclusivity is ongoing. Excellent listening skills are crucial; leaders should learn to listen without assumptions, biases, or judgments. They must create an open culture where everyone feels heard, valued, and respected, and where individuals can freely express differing opinions and admit mistakes. Additionally, she advocates for providing tools and training that empower team members to appreciate the importance of diversity and inclusion.
When it comes to recruitment, Sara emphasizes the need to bring in individuals who possess positive attitudes, open-mindedness, and an understanding of the organization’s mission and vision. “The people make up the culture of the organization,” she notes, reminding us that laws, policies, and technology alone cannot eliminate the unconscious biases that everyone has; individuals must take responsibility for their own growth. Ultimately, she believes that an organization can only achieve greatness through the quality of its people and the values it cultivates.
For Print and Design
Edition: World Unity Inc.: The Inspirational Journey of Sara Ting
Name of the Organization: World Unity, Inc.
Featured Person: Sara Ting
Designation: Founder
Quotes:
“I believe that true equality begins with each of us confronting our own biases; it’s an ongoing journey of self-discovery and growth.”
“Laws and policies alone can’t eliminate unconscious biases; it’s up to individuals to take responsibility for their own growth.”
“I encourage everyone to step outside their comfort zones. Each time we do, we free ourselves from limitations and embrace new possibilities.”