What It Means:
Programs create a safe and adaptive environment which recognizes that culture, family and personal history is core to a young person’s identity formation.
Why It Matters:
Programs that provide young people with an opportunity to explore their identity within the context of their own culture as well as others deepen young people’s sense of self-esteem and increase their openness and understanding toward all people.
What Effective Practices Look Like:
-
Program cultivates an inclusive environment where all youth and families are welcome and respected.
-
Staff create a safe atmosphere for children and youth to explore their own identity, including cultural beliefs and practices.
-
Youth are encouraged to be their whole selves, honoring their culture, sense of self and life experiences.
-
Program makes a genuine effort to ensure staff reflect the diverse race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, language and special needs of the young people being served.
-
Staff meet youth “where they’re at” and respond to their unique interests, needs and abilities. Young people’s cultures are recognized and understood.