(This feedback was gathered by ECSU at two sessions that included ECSU board directors, student representatives on University Committees, Graduate students, and Foundation year and other students.)
Feedback on this question was both broad and detailed. "Students have wide-ranging ideas about cultural competency, as it is not a simple question to answer."
Suggestions centred on the idea of creating a more inclusive campus environment. Issues of race, gender, age, socio-economic status, disability, language were all discussed. Some highlights:
- "More education around gender issues, such as the importance of gender neutral pronouns and accessible washrooms."
- "Educate Faculty to better support students with disabilities."
- "Visibly promote events in Vancouver that bring diverse people together (culturally, artistically, etc.)"
- "More respect and compassion for those who are unable to purchase all of the art supplies."
- "Offer ELL courses at ECU so that students can receive support."
- "More education around racism and not making assumptions about where someone is “from.” There are students who currently experience micro-aggressions such as being told that their English is “so good.”"
Please see the attached document (pg 4) for the complete list of ideas discussed.
The range of ideas suggests a definition of cultural competence should be a natural starting point.