Interculturalism 101

Cities are places where people can easily become the predominant culture create a new society isolated. Interculturalism is a way to build com- together. This approach uses a broader, flexible, munity and reduce isolation in cites composed and inclusive self-image of society. This new of different cultures. society is based on everyone bringing their gifts and strengths to a democratic process and being guided by fundamental values of human rights What is Interculturalism? and responsibilities. Interculturalism is the view that we all benefit when we actively encourage connections be- Interculturalism is like... tween people from different cultures. A curiosity for the other and the willingness to exchange • A stew, where the unique flavours of each allows us to share our uniqueness and open up vegetable is maintained and new flavours new ways of seeing and doing things. It en- are created through combining their juices. ables us to create deeper connections between Similarly, instead of the unique flavours of cultures that foster learning, respect, growth and vegetables, we have different people who produces something new. add their distinctive seasoning and together By culture, we usually mean a particular we make new a dish. collection of values, conventions, and social • A big toy box, and every time we play to- practices. But culture can also include: gether, it’s a different and new experience. • age • A sports team, where we need different tal- • language ents on the playing field to make the team • education strong, just as we need different people in • work our community. We play together and cre- • gender ate new strategies so we win as a team. • sexual orientation • social situations How does Interculturalism benefit • political and religious beliefs different groups of people? Youth What’s the difference between • It makes it easier to create a sense of accep- Multiculturalism & Interculturalism? tance and belonging between others. Multicultural approach • It encourages youth to meet new people, Newcomers and people who are different are learning from their experiences and stories. accepted and their differences are encouraged • It can eliminate social barriers that may and protected. There is integration work hap- otherwise prevent meaningful interaction. pening. However, multiculturalism can provoke Parents segregated development and rivalry between • It can help children understand and appre- communities for power and resources. ciate those who are different. Intercultural approach • It can foster and expand engaging relation- Newcomers and people who are different from ships with all members of a family. • Newly expanded networks can provide between people and services. families with better support. • It provides a more holistic understanding • It allows families to improve their capacity of clients’ needs and facilitates trust. for interacting with others. Seniors How you can be more • It can give seniors opportunities to con- Intercultural: nect to others who also are elders of the community. There are many ways you can increase your in- • It encourages storytelling and will give op- tercultural capacity! Here are some activities that portunities for mutual learning and sharing. can help you be more intercultural: • Open and respectful environments that are • Helping out at a local community garden diverse and encourage participation helps that has diverse members. to lose feelings of isolation and loneliness. • Volunteering in a program that has seniors and youth working together. Business • Participating in art forms that originated • It can extend the reach of a business to a from other countries. broader range of customers. • Playing a sport or doing a physical activity • Allows businesses to reach populations that you’ve never tried before. that may not regularly be exposed to their • Talking to someone who looks different products or services. from you. • By being intimately aware of their market’s • Attending events that you would normally needs, businesses can gain an advantage not go to. over competitors. • Listen to music you’ve never heard of before. • It can give businesses the intercultural • Read books or listen to a story teller you skills, know-how, and resilience to with- would normally not be interested in. stand cultural shifts affecting the business environment. There are many different types of cultures and just as many different ways of appreciating Service Provider them. Go ahead. Explore a different culture, and • It expands engagement and connections start building a more inclusive community today.

This was created by Renfrew-Collingwood INTERactive: Interculturalism through Physical Activity. We believe an intercultural approach means: embracing diversity, fostering awareness, connecting people, and creating something new together in our neighbourhood.

Renfrew-Collingwood INTERactive Project Contact Information: e: [email protected] | p: 604.435.0323 | w: cnh.bc.ca/rcinteractive