Good morning! Today, we are focusing on the component of cultural exchange. While on a VISION program, cultural exchange is something that teams actively engage with every day. Our teams find that cultural exchange is a two-way street; when you share your culture with those you visit, you also have a responsibility to learn about theirs, too. Depending on the site, a team may be invited to an Appalachian Jamboree or a local historical or cultural institution.
While at home, there are many ways that we can learn about other cultures via the internet, books, and other media channels. Here are some important things to keep in mind when learning about other cultures:
Listen effectively. Listening is a skill that is often lacking in our society. When getting to know someone different from you, it is essential that you listen to others without running the information through your own value system or preconceived notions. You should offer your full attention and listen without an agenda.
Resist judgmental reactions. Different does not mean wrong. Avoid the temptation to view your own culture or background as superior.
Cultivate self-awareness. Be aware of your own cultural background and preconceived notions. Being attentive to these values and how they have shaped you will help you to understand how they affect your interaction with others.
Avoid generalizing. While each group in society may have their own cultural norms, avoid expecting all people of that group to adhere to those norms. Do not expect one person to be the representative of an entire group or culture; allow for individual differences.
Here are some challenges for you!
1) Call someone in your family and ask about your own cultural heritage.
2) Reference your Spring Break Booklet from our LGO and look into some of the resources about the host community’s culture provided by your team leaders.
3) Look up the local food from your site’s community and cook it for dinner!
4) With those around you, share different aspects of your culture and invite them to do the same.
With love,
Emma, Alaina, Mackenna, Joey, Andrew M., Julia, Aria, Katie, Andrew S., Maddie, Thuy-Vy, and Noah
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