Cultutal Competency

The development of cultural competency created social change in the U.S during the times of the Civil Rights era. There were so many drastic forms of trying to show injustice such as freedom rides, boycotts, and sit ins. Americans believed that their system was that of freedom for all and equal opportunities. Instead it was not equal for those of minorities, there was a great deal of racism and sexism. The Civil Rights movement changed so much in society, the way people thought and felt make a big difference. During the 1950's the way non violence and equality was promoted was through television which only a few had. Over time the federal legislation legalized discrimination in America. After this occurred there was the a drastic change a head. The election occurred when for the first time everyone could vote, those that were not allowed at the time were women and minorities. When this right was given it was felt that society begin to change, because for once everyone had a say in what happened in society. Given this right to vote their would be equality is what was thought. There are components that make up cultural competency, the three I will mention are attitude, knowledge, and skills. Attitude is used in increasing awareness of cultural bias and beliefs (Wiki,2010). This is used so that everyone can examine how they really feel about their own values and beliefs. Then there is knowledge which is the understanding. In research it is said that the values and beliefs can often times not be consistent with behavior. In this case it is said that people are unaware of their actions according to what they value and believe. Lastly is skills which focus mainly on practicing cultural competence. The communication that is used can be verbal or just gestures depending on the culture. When all cultures practice together regardless of culture, cultural competence is being defined. These are just a few of the components that make up cultural competency.

In assessing cultural competency there are so many different views on different cultures and their differences. No one culture is the same and they all have relatively different views about the others. There are a variety of cultures and each one of them is influenced upon that particular individual either through family or generational change. Each culture has certain ways that they do things such as the way that children are fed, showing affection, or even sleeping. The fact of getting to know your culture and others an individual can be more open to new experiences. In looking at all cultures religion seems to be one that all cultures can come together on. Throughout history there has always been some type of religion or higher power believed in through all cultures. Religion was used for strength to help those of minorities to get through the struggles. Regardless of ethnicity or culture it is beneficial for all of society to come together as one. In doing so it will teach others who