Multiculturalism
The utterance of multiculturalism generally refers to an applied ideology of racial, cultural and ethnic diversity within the demographics of a specified place, usually at the scale of an organization such as a school, business, neighborhood, city or nation. (Britannica, 2008). Multiculturalism should embody different ethnic clusters living separately but equally together, while sharing in an enhanced capacity to build up the community, as a diverse single unit. However, the word multiculturalism is often viewed or associated with extremist or immigration issues. According to one article on multiculturalism, the vision of multiculturalism is about creating group solidarity, not social disconnection from society. (Anthony Giddens, 2008). A sense of meaning and belonging are powerful agents when it comes to self-orientation or identity. The importance of identity has been nurtured by state policies over the last two decades, which privilege the importance of different cultural identities. (Munira Mirza, 2005)
Bridging the Gap
It embodies visible and unseen, cognitive and emotional, aware and unaware, as well as many other aspects. (C. E. Vontress, 2002). Cultural differences have existed amongst different ethnic groups for many generations throughout history. Bridging this gap is an issue that has received enormous focus over the last decade. Applying sensitivity toward the significant characteristics of cultural variables that connect diverse groups is important. When interacting with clients it is critical to have an understanding and knowledge about the cultural diversity that exists. This may include belief systems, religious ideologies, language differences, as well as other cultural norms, different from one's own cultural norms. (J. Axelson, 2008) Ethnicity influences the counseling rapport, findings, healing plan, follow-up, and payment. (C. E. Vontress, 2002).
Multicultural Counseling
According to research, approximately 29 different subgroups exist in the Asian-American community, differing…
