- "Cultural competence, also known as intercultural competence, is a range of cognitive, affective, behavioural, and linguistic skills that lead to effective and appropriate communication with people of other cultures."
The ability to understand, appreciate, and respect cultural differences in order to effectively serve diverse communities.
Diversity: Understanding and accepting the differences between individuals and groups, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, and culture.
Social justice: The fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within society, and the acknowledgment and dismantling of systemic oppression.
Communication: Effective verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to promote understanding and respect across cultures.
Stereotypes and biases: Recognizing and challenging personal biases and preconceived notions that may impede cultural competence.
Cultural humility: An attitude of openness, self-reflection, and willingness to learn and adapt to new knowledge and experiences.
Intersectionality: Recognizing that individuals may experience multiple forms of oppression and discrimination simultaneously, and addressing these intersections in culturally competent practice.
Historical context: Understanding the historical and cultural context that has shaped the experiences and perspectives of individuals and communities.
Community engagement: Engaging with communities to understand their perspectives, needs, and priorities, and involving them in the development and implementation of culturally competent interventions.
Healthcare disparities: Understanding and addressing the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes experienced by marginalized communities.
Globalization and migration: The impact of globalization and migration on cultural diversity, identity, and integration, and the need for culturally competent practice in a globalized world.
Ethics: The ethical considerations and principles that guide culturally competent practice, including respect for diversity, non-discrimination, and empowerment.
Trauma-informed practice: Understanding the impact of trauma on individuals and communities, and implementing trauma-informed practices that are sensitive to cultural differences.
Cultural humility in research: Mentalities and approaches to conducting studies that are incisive, sensitive, and appropriate, and that are rooted in cultural humility and understanding.
Cultural competency in human services: How to apply the principles of cultural competence in social work and human services, including with clients who are immigrants, refugees, or have different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Parenting for cultural competence: Best practices for parents and caregivers to cultivate children’s awareness and embrace of cultural diversity, in a way that recognizes and values their own cultural identity.
Awareness: This involves acknowledging and being aware of one's own cultural background, values, biases, and assumptions.
Knowledge: This involves understanding and learning about the cultural practices and beliefs of diverse populations.
Attitude: This involves having a positive and accepting attitude towards different cultures, identities, and perspectives.
Skills: This involves developing the ability to communicate with individuals from diverse cultures, understand and navigate cultural differences, and work effectively across cultures.
Behaviors: This involves taking appropriate actions to promote cultural understanding, inclusion, and respect in all aspects of one's work and personal life.
Sensitivity: This involves being aware of the impact of cultural differences on interactions and relationships, and developing the ability to respond appropriately to these differences.
Adaptation: This involves the ability to modify behaviors, attitudes, and communication styles to better fit different cultural contexts and meet the needs of diverse populations.
Advocacy: This involves actively promoting and advocating for the rights and needs of individuals from diverse cultures, challenging oppressive systems and structures, and working towards social justice and equity.
Humility: This involves recognizing and admitting that we do not know everything about other cultures and being willing to learn and be corrected if necessary.
- "Intercultural or cross-cultural education are terms used for the training to achieve cultural competence."
- "Effective intercultural communication relates to behaviors that culminate with the accomplishment of the desired goals of the interaction and all parties involved in the situation."
- "Appropriate intercultural communication includes behaviors that suit the expectations of a specific culture, the characteristics of the situation, and the level of the relationship between the parties involved in the situation."