In information and referral services, what does 'cultural competence' refer to?

Cultural competence refers to the ability to effectively engage with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. This encompasses understanding, respecting, and appropriately responding to the unique cultural variables that influence individuals' interactions and experiences. In the context of information and referral services, being culturally competent is crucial because it enables practitioners to provide services that are sensitive to and appropriate for the cultural needs of the community they serve. This includes recognizing cultural differences, effectively communicating, and fostering trust and respect with clients from varied backgrounds. It is not solely about language proficiency, conducting workshops, or mediating disputes, as these aspects may play a part in a broader strategy for engaging with cultural diversity but do not fully capture the essence of cultural competence itself.