Embracing cultural humility: A path toward genuine inclusion and respect
Miss Caley-Rain Anderson - Photo credit: Pascal Kayishema
In today’s increasingly diverse world, there is a growing need for deeper understanding and mutual respect across cultures. While many have heard of cultural competence, a concept that focuses on acquiring knowledge about different cultural practices, a more dynamic and introspective approach is gaining traction: cultural humility.
What Is Cultural Humility?
Cultural humility is more than a skill—it’s a mindset and a lifelong journey. It is the ongoing process of self-evaluation and self-critique, aimed at understanding our own beliefs, biases, and limitations. Unlike cultural competence, which may imply that one can master the knowledge of another culture, cultural humility acknowledges the impossibility of fully knowing someone else’s experience. It invites us to remain open, humble, and curious.
Practicing cultural humility doesn’t require a large budget or formal training. The willingness to learn—from conversations, reading, and observations is enough to start. Mistakes are inevitable, but they offer opportunities for reflection and growth.
Ultimately, cultural humility is about creating a world where every person feels seen, valued, and respected. By staying curious, kind, and committed to equity, each of us can contribute to building stronger, more inclusive communities. Says Caley-Rain Anderson who facilitated the workshop in Saskatoon during associatif forum.
