Learn more about Cultural and Linguistic Competency

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Definitions

What do we mean by cultural and linguistic competency? Unfortunately, there is no single, authoritative definition. Instead, cultural competency is open to multiple interpretations...

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Standards

Cultural competence is a developmental process that evolves over an extended period. Both individuals and organizations are at various levels of awareness, knowledge and skills along the cultural competence continuum.

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Linguistic Competency

What is Linguistic Competency? The capacity of an organization and its personnel to communicate effectively, and convey information in a manner that is easily understood by diverse audiences.

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Field of Practice Resources

Here you will find a selection of resources on cultural competency in specific fields of practice. These resources are intended to provide a broad overview and introduction to the topic.

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New Jersey Directory

We invite individuals and organizations committed to the goal of cultural and linguistic competency to register with the "New Jersey Cultural Competency Directory." By registering, you will be informing the public of your capacity to serve diverse communities.

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Perspectives

Our Continuing Journey
Robert C. Like, MD, MS, Chair, NJSNCC

"The Starship Enterprise was a metaphor for Starship Earth, and the strength of this starship lay in its diversity coming together." George Takei

Welcome to our newly redesigned New Jersey Statewide Network for Cultural Competence (NJSNCC) website! We hope that you will find this to be the “go-to place” for learning about and sharing best and promising practices, cutting edge initiatives, ongoing activities, and available resources in the field of cultural and linguistic competence. You will also be able to connect, network, and collaborate with other interested and dedicated colleagues who are working in this area.

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Articles of Interest

How to Develop a Culturally Intelligent Organization

Inclusive organizations are ones that harness the power of the differences that individuals bring to an organization and leverage them to outperform competitors in the marketplace.

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Here’s How Some Therapists Are Tackling Structural Racism in Their Practice

Starting her practice, a Cambodian-American therapist noticed how dealing with certain issues, including race and immigration, were not given priority in her clinical training — even though she knew how important they were in shaping the lives of her clients.

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Cultural Humility: A Key Element to Advancing Racial and Health Equity

Discusses why “cultural humility” is a more realistic goal for individuals than “cultural competence,” a term which should apply more to organizations and systems than to individuals.

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