Each attendee received a list of student "demands, " which included making courses in ethnic studies and gender and sexuality required for graduation.

WSJ: Danielle Charette: My Top-Notch Illiberal Arts Education

"The Salims are affected by the crisis, " says Singapore-based political scientist Leo Suryadinata, who studies ethnic Chinese businesses in Indonesia.

CNN: ASIA ON HIS MIND

Studies show ethnic and racial diversities enrich economies and societies.

BBC: Why Indian boardrooms have no diversity

These attitudes span all ages, ethnic groups and economic groups, but non-voters are particularly prevalent among the young, poor and minorities, studies show.

CNN: NHPrimary.com: Non-voters will stay in the shadows