Culture is complex and dynamic. It is more than just race, ethnicity, gender, class, religion, dis/Ability, or orientation. Fostering cultural competence is about aligning behaviors, attitudes, and policies in order to work effectively in and with diverse groups.

Cultural competence acknowledges and incorporates:

• Practicing self-awareness and self-reflection
• Increasing inclusiveness, accessibility, and equity
• Fostering a climate where discrimination and oppressive behaviors are not tolerated
• Valuing cultural differences
• Promoting the elimination of systemic biases and barriers