What is the best definition of cultural humility?

Cultural humility is best defined as a process of self-reflection and discovery that emphasizes an appreciation for differences among individuals and communities. This concept acknowledges that every person's experience and identity are shaped by a myriad of factors, including cultural background, and it encourages individuals to maintain an open and humble attitude towards others' cultural perspectives.

By engaging in self-reflection, individuals can recognize their own biases, assumptions, and limitations in understanding other cultures. This process is essential for fostering genuine connections and respecting the diverse experiences of others, particularly in fields such as healthcare, social work, and education, where understanding clients’ or students’ cultural contexts enhances the effectiveness of support and services provided.

Cultural humility is distinct from approaches that focus on enforcing norms or claiming superiority over other cultures, as it promotes a lifelong commitment to learning from others. It also rejects any notion of cultural appropriation, as this often involves taking elements from another culture without understanding or respect. Instead, cultural humility invites a deeper engagement with and respect for the richness of diverse cultural perspectives.