Cultural Sensitivity

16th April, 2010 - Posted by Camille Cotton -

That was the topic of our second meeting for the outreach team members serving in Kenya this summer. More than anything else I teach our team members, cultural sensitivity is the most important. Serving on outreach is not just about doing something good for other people - if you don’t go in with openness, an awareness of their culture, and the ability to respect their culture, you’ll do more harm than good.

I’ve seen team members serve with incredible sensitivity and openness. And people respond immediately when they feel they will be accepted and cared for, not rejected or made to feel inferior. Because that’s what even our non-verbal negative reactions can do - cause hurt, make others closed off, and project an air of superiority because we think our way of doing things is better.

I’ve also, sadly, watched team members who were completely unaware of their actions. Even something as simple as dressing in clothes that are too tight or how loud and flamboyant you are walking down the street can really offend people of another culture. It’s not something we think about often because it’s a way many people act in America. But when you leave your culture, you have to be prepared to put aside what you’re used to and be open to doing things a different way. You’ll be a more effective and loving servant .