Question

One-third of this nation now traces its heritage to regions other than Western Europe. We will continue to squander our talent if our leaders—in politics, science, business, education and the arts—do not reflect our grand variety. I urged the students (and all of us) to ponder the strength of the mountains around us, to rise to the challenges.

–“The Leader in the Mirror,”
Pat Mora

Based on the passage, what was Mora’s purpose for writing her essay?

to encourage readers to recognize and embrace diversity
to entertain readers with stories about her childhood
to inform readers about mountains on the US/Mexico border
to persuade readers to vote for leaders who support education and the arts

Answer 1

to encourage readers to recognize and embrace diversity

The passage emphasizes the nation's growing diversity and urges leaders and readers to reflect that variety and rise to the challenge, so Mora’s purpose is to promote recognition and acceptance of diversity.