UNMC’s “Conversations for Inclusive Excellence” Cultural Humility Series held its third session March 11, with attendees discussing the subject of expanding the cultural humility paradigm.
Sheritta Strong, MD, director of inclusion at UNMC, introduced the session. UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, took part, and opened the discussion welcoming the participants and shared his reflections on the recent loss of medical center colleague Joseph Stothert, MD, PhD, who died unexpectedly March 5.
“There are tremendous resources available for those of you feeling pain and grief, including myself,” Dr. Gold said. “Dr. Strong has reminded me over and over again, we need to destigmatize those conversations and reach out for support.”
Participants then explored how culture intertwines with identity, including social identity, and how culture can guide how we self-identify.
The keynote presentation was a Ted Talk video by sociologist Julie Hogan, PhD, associate professor at the University of Nevada Reno. Dr. Hogan talked about “the robes we wear” and the lens with which we see others, including appearance, culture and first impressions.
The lenses through which we see others actually may tell us more about ourselves, Dr. Hogan said.
During the monthly “Conversations for Inclusive Excellence” sessions, individuals will engage in meaningful and, at times, uncomfortable conversations to co-create understanding. Participants also will gain tools to continue the dialogue within their departments and offices. The sessions, which take place the second Thursday of every month, will challenge participants and the assumptions we all make consciously and unconsciously.