Ashoka
Knowing your neighbor to love your neighbor
“During the spring of 2014, I was introduced to the term ‘cultural humility.’ The person who used this term used it in the context of a posture of learning about other cultures and the possibility of using it as a replacement for ‘cultural competency.’" “We find ourselves in a moment in history that is challenging us to evaluate our place in conversations about racism, faith, sexual identity, and other difficult subjects. These conversations are happening in the dining room, in Zoom meetings, in community meetings, boardrooms, and places of faith. Having a posture of cultural humility will help you become more effective because you have an understanding that you are a student. Since diversity, equity, and inclusion are ever-changing, you need to be adaptable. Identities and culture will continue to evolve. This requires a posture that will help us engage in meaningful dialogue, that will assist us in learning from each other and not tearing each other down.”
Ashoka insight
The concept of “loving our neighbors” is promoted through most organized religions. Other forms of spirituality cherish the connection between beings in equally high regard. As migration and global citizenship increase our possibilities to learn from people with different cultural backgrounds, we as changemakers benefit from keeping an attitude of openness to knowing how the other sees the world. When we view everyone as precious and deserving of love and respect, and we acknowledge everyone as a changemaker, we encourage other people to feel comfortable enough to show us their most authentic and raw selves, and experience unique opportunities for collaboration and friendship.
At Ashoka, “loving our neighbors” is about putting that love and respect into action for the good of all.
If I migrate to a different country, what values would I bring with me? How can those values be an opportunity for connection?
If I knew my neighbors better, how would I love them differently?