Learning About Cultural Humility

The image is a Venn diagram comparing "Cultural Humility" and "Cultural Competence." - The left circle, labeled "Cultural Humility," is filled with light blue and contains the text: "Lifelong reflection and learning." - The right circle, labeled "Cultural Competence," is filled with light pink and contains the text: "Learning specific cultural knowledge." - In the overlapping middle section, which is light purple, the text reads: "Awareness of biases and openness to learning." - At the bottom left of the image, a small pink heart is visible. - The bottom right corner features the "CAPA" logo. This diagram highlights the differences and commonalities between the two concepts.

On Friday, September 13, 2024, CAPA staff and board members gathered for a bi-annual DEIB Retreat. We were introduced to the idea of cultural humility and how it differs from cultural competence. Cultural humility is an ongoing process of self-reflection and learning, where individuals acknowledge their own cultural biases and actively seek to understand and respect others’ cultural perspectives. Unlike cultural competence, which focuses on acquiring knowledge and skills about different cultures, cultural humility emphasizes a lifelong commitment to openness and recognizing that we can never fully master another culture. It fosters genuine relationships, reduces power imbalances, and promotes inclusivity in diverse settings.

A gif of four images. A graphic with a light blue background featuring a large blue quotation mark and the question, "What does cultural humility mean to me?" Below, a quote reads, "Always working to meet our clients where they are, and to be open-minded so they can educate me as well." The CAPA logo appears at the bottom. A graphic with a light pink background featuring a large pink quotation mark and the question, "What does cultural humility mean to me?" Below, a quote reads, "It’s the self-work that’s essential for fostering growth and creating supportive environments for others." The CAPA logo is placed at the bottom. A graphic with a light blue background featuring a large blue quotation mark and the question, "What does cultural humility mean to me?" Below, a quote reads, "Curiosity fosters deeper connections and respect for each person's dignity, revealing that there is always more to learn from each other." The CAPA logo appears at the bottom. A graphic with a light blue background featuring a large blue quotation mark and the question, "What does cultural humility mean to me?" Below, a quote reads, "Curiosity fosters deeper connections and respect for each person's dignity, revealing that there is always more to learn from each other." The CAPA logo appears at the bottom. A graphic with a light pink background featuring a large pink quotation mark and the question, "What does cultural humility mean to me?" Below, a quote reads, "Cultural Humility is a lifelong commitment to curiosity about and respect for others and their stories." The CAPA logo is placed at the bottom.

 

Posted in