The CCLI philosophy begins with a strengths-based model, believing that, as institutions engage in cultural competence work, they should build from their strengths. CCLI is also grounded in the idea that cultural competence is a continuum along which individuals and institutions are travelling. The goal of increasing organizational capacity is to begin by identifying where you are on the spectrum and endeavoring to move along that spectrum toward inclusion.
Two models inform this philosophy:
The Bennett Model of Cultural Competence
There are many developmental models of cultural competence in the field. One commonly referenced model is the Bennett model, which was developed by Milton Bennett and consists of a continuum of six stages moving from “ethnocentrism” to “ethnorelativism.” This model, as is the case with most models, is valuable in that it provides a springboard for discussion.
Cultural Competence Framework (21st Century Skills)
It is also helpful to know how we
define some important words and phrases that are often used in diversity or cultural competence work.
Kandel Allard, Director of Visitor Services, Long Island Children's Museum