• Cultural Competency is a set of skills, knowledge and attitudes, which enhance an individual’s:

1. awareness of his or her own assumptions and values as well as other prevailing attitudes toward culture within the United States;

2. understanding of and respect for other’s values, beliefs and expectations; and

3. ability to adapt his or her interactions to be more congruent with other’s expectations and preference.

• Diversity: describes one aspect of inclusiveness: the extent to which an organization has people from diverse backgrounds or communities involved as board members, staff, or volunteers.
• Inclusive: organizations have diverse individuals involved and are learning organizations that value the perspectives and contributions of all people, and they incorporate the needs, assets, and viewpoints of diverse communities into the design and implementation of universal and inclusive programs.

What are your favorite resources or tips when working on diversity issues?

Send your resources with a small annotation or tips to intercambios@zianet.com for the next quarterly installment.