Multicultural Competence, Anyone?

There is much discussion about diversity and “multicultural competence;” but often there is little specificity about  definitions.  Exactly how do our professions define “multi-cultural”?  If we speak only one or two of the 337 languages used in the U.S. today, does it count if we are proficient with patients from rural cultures?  from certain disability groups?  from specific geographic, racial, age, gender or sexual-orientation groups?

INTRODUCTION: 
“Competent” With How Many “Cultures”  ? 

  I.  Ethics Codes & Professional Guidelines

 II. Definitions

Competence
Culture
Ethnicity
Diversity & Multiculturalism
Inclusion
Race 

 III.  ”Cultural” Variables

Age
Gender
Geographical  Origin or Location
Immigration Status
Language
Political Preference
Race/Ethnicity
Religion/Morality
Sexual  Orientation
Socioeconomic Variables

 IV. Impediments to “Multicultural Competence”

Educational Goals:
(a) To understand my profession’s definitions of “culture” and “competence.”
(b) To identify the different “cultures” with which  I am already competent.
(c) To consider other “cultures” with which I would like to become more competent.
(d) To decide how  I can gain and maintain that multicultural competence.