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In Week 1 my cultural identity was a 29-year-old army veteran who grew up learning that it is important to speak up for those who can’t do it themselves.
Now: Reflecting on my 29-year-old female army veteran journey, I realize that traditional markers, language, gender, or social status don’t define my cultural identity. Instead, it is a complex tapestry woven from my unique experiences, values, and beliefs. Growing up, I learned the importance of speaking up for those who cannot advocate for themselves, a lesson that has profoundly shaped me into a passionate advocate for social justice and inclusivity. This conviction influences how I interact with others, propelling me to empower marginalized voices and cultivate a supportive environment for dialogue and understanding.
My time in the military further enriches my identity, instilling in me the values of discipline, resilience, and camaraderie. It also exposed me to diverse perspectives and backgrounds, broadening my worldview in ways I continue to cherish. This experience pushes me to connect with new people, places, and cultures, fueled by my innate curiosity and openness. I wholeheartedly value the richness that different experiences bring into my life. For me, cultural exchange is not just about learning—it’s about fostering empathy and deepening my appreciation for the vast diversity of the human experience.
Rather than confining myself to conventional cultural categories, I align my identity with the beliefs and values I’ve cultivated throughout my life. Respect for individuality, a commitment to equality, and a belief in the power of community define who I am. My identity is characterized by empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to learn from others. I strive to focus on shared values such as kindness, courage, and integrity, which guide my actions and relationships. This perspective allows me to cultivate connections that transcend superficial differences, creating a sense of belonging in a broader human community.
Ultimately, my cultural identity is a dynamic and evolving construct, continuously shaped by my commitment to understanding and celebrating the rich tapestry of humanity. As I advocate for justice and equality, I remain dedicated to fostering connections that uplift and empower us all.
Post:
· Reflect on your growth throughout the course. What insights did you gain about your own culture and about other cultural groups?
· Revisit Week 1. Has your perspective changed on the defining parts of your identity? If so, how? How will your cultural characteristics be strengths to you in social work practice?
· Identify and explain one skill that is important to culturally grounded social work with individuals, groups, or communities that you would like to further develop.
References
· Marsiglia, F. F., Kulis, S. S., & Lechuga-Peña, S. (2021). Diversity, oppression, and change: Culturally grounded social work (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
o Chapter 12, “Culturally Grounded Methods of Social Work Practice” (pp. 260–267 only)Download Chapter 12, “Culturally Grounded Methods of Social Work Practice” (pp. 260–267 only)
Credit line: Diversity, Oppression, and Change: Culturally Grounded Social Work, 3rd Edition by Marsiglia, F.; Kulis, S.; Lechuga-Peña, S. Copyright 2021 by Oxford University Press. Reprinted by permission of Oxford University Press via the Copyright Clearance Center. Licensed in 2023.
· Osborn, P. R., & Karandikar, S. (2022). Practice-based knowledge perspectives of cultural competence in social workLinks to an external site.. Journal of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity in Social Work. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15313204.2022.2046228
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