people taking group picture

Intercultural Literacy

What is Cultural Literacy?

Cultural literacy means being able to understand the traditions, regular activities and history of a group of people from a given culture. It also means being able to engage with these traditions, activities and history in cultural spaces like museums, galleries and performances. Culture is how a group of people lives. It includes their language, arts, science, beliefs and practices, and their understanding of their environment.

Cultural Literacy in Canada

Colorful mini flags of countries on a world map, symbolizing global connections.

Understanding Cultural Literacy in Canada: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

Cultural literacy in Canada is all about understanding the diverse traditions, activities, and histories of different cultural groups. Given that Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, cultural literacy plays a crucial role in fostering inclusivity and reducing cultural misunderstandings.

Why is Cultural Literacy Important?

  • Enhances Inclusivity: It helps create a more welcoming and equitable society.
  • Reduces Prejudice: Understanding different cultures minimizes stereotypes and biases.
  • Improves Communication: It fosters better interactions in workplaces and social settings.
  • Encourages Participation: People with cultural literacy are more likely to engage in community activities, such as visiting museums and attending cultural performances.




Multilingualism

The Role of Multilingualism in Cultural Literacy
A coffee cup with multilingual text stands on a wooden table in a vibrant café setting.

Multilingualism is a significant aspect of life in Canada. According to the 2016 census, 58% of Burnaby residents have a mother tongue that is neither English nor French. People in multilingual families in Canada can face challenges in developing English language skills while maintaining their home language.

  • Multilingualism allows individuals to engage with different cultural narratives, fostering deeper appreciation and respect for various traditions.
  • Being multilingual helps bridge cultural gaps, making interactions more inclusive and effective.
  • Canada supports Indigenous and immigrant languages, ensuring that cultural identities remain strong across generations.
  • Schools and institutions promote multilingual education, helping students develop cultural literacy alongside language skills.
Clear Language

How Clear Language Supports Cultural Literacy and Multilingualism

Clear language is language that is plain and concise. It is a way of presenting information that makes it easy for everyone to read and understand.

For example, here is a sentence in clear language:

“Clear Language helps your readers understand your message.“

Compare it to this version:

“The use of Clear Language (also called Plain Language) is capable of helping you to ensure your message is fully comprehended by your intended audience.“

Clear Language usually consists of:

  • Short sentences with one point.
  • Simple graphics that are easy to understand.
  • Headings, sub-headings and bullet points.
  • Some bold type to highlight important things.
  • Lots of white space.

Why use Clear Language?

  • It is fair, inclusive, and reaches people who don’t read well.
  • For 42% of Canadian adults, low levels of literacy may keep them from fully participating in society.
  • It puts the reader first and focuses on action.

How does Clear Language help?

  • Saves time, and money because it gets the job done the first time.
  • It reaches more people.
  • It increases understanding while decreasing misunderstanding.

Resources

Multilingualism 

Clear Language

Cultural Posts

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Find more interesting information below:

A Guide To Clear Language and Design by Tracy Defoe from The Learning Factor:

Defoe-TLFI-Clear-Design-2-page-handoutDownload

Sensitive Writing Resources:

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