Cultural Humility: Leading With Curiosity, Not Certainty

As teams deepen relationships over the year, differences become more visible.

Differences in communication styles. Differences in values. Differences in lived experience.

Cultural humility invites leaders to shift from knowing to learning.

Unlike cultural competence—which implies mastery—cultural humility is an ongoing practice of reflection, curiosity, and respect.

From a personal leadership perspective, cultural humility asks: - What assumptions am I bringing into this interaction? - Whose perspective is missing? - How do power and identity show up here?

In early childhood settings, cultural humility strengthens: - Family partnerships - Team trust - Inclusive decision-making

Without it, misinterpretations grow—and belonging shrinks.

Midyear Leadership Reflection - When was the last time I paused to question my assumptions? - How do I respond when perspectives differ from my own? - What would it look like to listen more deeply before responding?

Cultural humility isn’t a destination. It’s a leadership stance.

Practice Cultural Humility—Together
The Culture Card Deck supports ongoing reflection and dialogue around culture, helping teams notice assumptions, listen more deeply, and build shared understanding over time.