What Does 'Multicultural' Mean? (InterCom Live: December 12, 2022)

Summary

This video explores the concept of multiculturalism, explaining how people and communities are influenced by multiple cultures in ways that might not always be obvious. It highlights examples such as the word *barbecue* from the Taino language, the French origins of restaurants, and diverse cultural foods and holidays. The script emphasizes the importance of recognizing, embracing, and learning from various cultures—whether through language, celebrations, or family traditions—and encourages viewers to appreciate the rich, multifaceted world around them. Understanding and celebrating multiculturality is presented as a valuable and continuous learning journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Multicultural means the influence of multiple cultures on a person or community.
• 😀 Many people are part of or influenced by more than one culture, often without realizing it.
• 😀 Words like 'barbecue' originate from other cultures, such as the Taino language spoken by Indigenous peoples of the Caribbean.
• 😀 The concept of restaurants, a common feature today, originated in France just a few hundred years ago.
• 😀 Multiculturalism is about recognizing and appreciating the diverse cultures around you.
• 😀 Embracing multiculturalism involves learning about language, communication, religion, family, foods, and celebrations.
• 😀 Foods are a tangible way to explore multiculturalism, such as Peruvian spiced hot chocolate or Jewish latkes.
• 😀 Many countries celebrate major holidays, and your community may celebrate some of these as well.
• 😀 For example, luminarias are a tradition in the southwestern U.S., rooted in Spanish and Mexican culture.
• 😀 Lunar New Year is a major celebration across many parts of Asia, reflecting multicultural traditions in various communities.
• 😀 Learning more about different cultures can help deepen your understanding and appreciation for the world around you.

Q & A

What does 'multicultural' mean?

Multicultural refers to a situation where more than one cultural group influences a person or a community. It involves recognizing and embracing the diversity of cultural influences present in daily life.

Can you provide an example of how language influences multiculturalism?

Yes! For instance, the word 'barbecue' comes from the Taino language, spoken by the Taino people of the Caribbean. This is an example of how language from different cultures influences our everyday terms and practices.

Where did the concept of restaurants originate?

The idea of restaurants originated in France, and it is a relatively modern concept, having been established only a few hundred years ago.

How can we embrace multiculturalism in our daily lives?

We can embrace multiculturalism by learning about and sharing various aspects of different cultures, such as language, food, religion, celebrations, and communication practices.

What is a simple way to begin exploring multiculturality?

A simple way to explore multiculturality is by starting with food and celebrations. For example, trying foods from different cultures or participating in community celebrations can help you better understand the diversity around you.

Can you give examples of multicultural foods and celebrations?

Sure! For example, during the holidays, some families may share spiced hot chocolate, a Peruvian tradition, while others might serve latkes, which are fried potato pancakes often associated with Hanukkah in Eastern Europe.

How many major holidays are typically celebrated between October and February?

There are more than 20 major holidays celebrated around the world during this period, many of which could be observed in your own community.

What is Las Posadas, and where is it celebrated?

Las Posadas is a Mexican and Spanish tradition that involves a reenactment of Mary and Joseph's search for shelter in Bethlehem. It is celebrated in various parts of the southwestern United States, particularly during Christmas Eve, where you'll see Luminarias lighting the paths.

What is an example of a multicultural celebration related to the Lunar New Year?

The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many parts of Asia and is an important cultural event. In some communities, you'll see festive activities and parades that bring together people from different ethnic backgrounds to honor the occasion.

Why is learning about different cultures important?

Learning about different cultures helps foster understanding and appreciation for diversity. It allows people to recognize values, traditions, and practices that may not be immediately visible but are significant to others' identities.