| By Tara Shekouri |
Our view of the world is always evolving, influenced notably by the media's powerful presence in our everyday lives, which can sometimes reinforce stereotypes and establish false narratives. As adolescents, we constitute a large percentage of the group of people who use social media—making it critical to be mindful of what we consume and ensuring that we are aware of what is true and what is false. Building cultural awareness helps us counteract the impact of stereotypes and preconceived notions to connect with diverse perspectives more empathetically.
Cultural awareness (or cultural sensitivity) means being aware, attentive, and understanding of the similarities and distinctions across cultural groups. Cultural awareness is vital because it helps to acknowledge and respect other people's points of view, as well as realize the inherent value of those who vary from us. It promotes deeper human connection, a better sense of belonging and security, and an overall more compassionate society.
One of the first steps to becoming more culturally aware is recognizing that this is a journey that begins with oneself. Everyone has their own judgment and their own biases. We begin by looking at other cultures through our own perspective—but to begin this journey, it is essential to break free from this comfort zone and mindset, and be willing to explore various customs and traditions in a way we may not be used to. According to the theory of cultural relativism, we must approach other cultures with an open mind, understanding that practices and beliefs should be viewed within their own cultural context. This is important for cultural awareness because it allows us to appreciate the unique values and traditions of different cultures without imposing our own biases, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
The next step in deepening one’s cultural awareness is actively getting to know other cultures. Some ways to do so which lean more toward cultural learning and exploration are through reading written pieces such as the poems or books of individuals from a particular culture, sharing their story and their struggles; researching their history, its ups and downs; engaging in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds; and participating in clubs/workshops/events that explore different cultures. To deepen your cultural understanding, you can actively immerse yourself in the culture you’re learning about. This could involve travelling, living with a host family, or participating in local traditions and ceremonies. Engaging in these experiences provides an authentic perspective while contributing to personal growth.
As you become more culturally aware, an impactful way to apply your understanding is through activism. Activism involves actively supporting cultural groups and advocating for their rights. You may do so by joining a protest, volunteering for an organization, sharing facts on social media to fight stereotypes and stigma, etc. By actively engaging in these efforts, you not only amplify the voices of communities but also contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone by fighting stereotypes.
It is crucial to note that asking questions throughout this journey is extremely helpful. Avoid leaning toward assumptions because that’s where one begins to mix in their perception of their own culture with the one they are learning about. When curious/unsure, ask questions to others while ensuring respect and consideration. Make sure the exchanges are not one-sided, as well. For example, if asking someone about their traditions, share some of your traditions as well.
All in all, cultural awareness is a valuable journey that involves opening ourselves to diverse perspectives, questioning our biases, and engaging in meaningful exchanges. By learning, immersing ourselves in different cultures, and supporting activism, we contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society.
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