The ability to adapt, work and collaborate successfully in new groups and teams and create a welcoming environment from those from divergent cultural backgrounds, is critical for the ABA to become more diverse and inclusive. Culturally competent people can “grasp, reason and behave effectively” when faced with culturally diverse situations, where assumptions, values and traditions differ from those to which they are accustomed. They recognize that culture may impact the way people from different backgrounds perceive the same facts. When several competing interpretations of a situation may be valid, they can place apparent contradictions in cultural contexts and deal with the ambiguity.
Members will develop an awareness of personal values, preferences, characteristics and circumstances that impact decision making, by examining cultural identity through an introduction and explanation of key concepts. Members will better understand the interrelation between diversity, equity and inclusion, and be introduced to the concepts of unconscious bias, cultural competence, microaggressions and code switching, among others. Members will explore the importance of creating an environment that fosters psychological safety, where everyone feels valued, included and empowered to collaborate on successful solutions for the future of our profession. Members will leave with a clear understanding of the importance of diversity and how addressing these areas will lead to greater inclusivity and opportunities for the ABA.
