Module 2: Expanding Your Intercultural Knowledge
Setting the Scene
ka-kí-kiskéyihtétan óma, namoya kinwés maka aciyowés pohko óma óta ka-hayayak wasétam askihk, ékwa ka-kakwéy miskétan kiskéyihtamowin, iyinísiwin, kistéyitowin, mina nánisitotatowin kakiya ayisiniwak, ékosi óma kakiya ka-wahkotowak.
Realize that we as human beings have been put on this earth for only a short time and that we must use this time to gain wisdom, knowledge, respect, and the understanding for all human beings, since we are all related.
Cree (First Nations) Proverb
There’s no such thing as a model or ideal Canadian. What could be more absurd than the concept of an “all Canadian” boy or girl? A society which emphasizes uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate […] What the world should be seeking, and what in Canada we must continue to cherish, are not concepts of uniformity, but human values: compassion, love, and understanding.
Pierre Trudeau, 15th Prime Minister of Canada
It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.
Audre Lorde, American writer
Think About This
- Why is it important to extend our knowledge of other cultures?
- Is there any downside to that?
- What are the benefits of intentionally learning about values, ways of being, and ways of behaving across cultures?
