Overcoming Exclusion
The Situation
As a human services professional, you are very likely to encounter situations where your beliefs about diversity and inclusion are challenged. You’ll have to think on your feet so that your practice is inclusive and culturally competent even when you encounter clients who have a different background or values from you.
In this activity, you’ll learn about a client and his family. In the face of the challenges, they might pose to your values or beliefs, you’ll also consider how to treat them in a culturally competent and inclusive way.
Meet Jordan and Karl
They’ve been dating for about two years and they’re ready to take their relationship to the next level: Wedding vows.
Jordan’s family is beyond excited! Listen to the conversation between Jordan's mom and dad below, then continue to the next section.
Elana: We love Karl! He’s such a sweet fella, and we just can’t wait for him and our son to tie the knot. Nicholas: That Karl is a good one. And he’s good to our Jordan.
But there are some complications–Karl’s parents aren’t happy at all.
Patty: Well, I guess they can do what they want. But we believe that marriage is between a man and a woman. Some things don’t change, and the Bible is very clear on that. Bruce: I hope my boy can get himself turned around. Otherwise, he’s on a fast track to hell. And no, we’re not going to the "wedding." It’s an abomination. Until he abandons it, he’s not welcome here. Joan: Poor Karl. I love him so, and he deserves to be happy. He’s my sweetest nephew! He can’t wait to marry Jordan, but he’s so unhappy now. He wants his parents to be there and he’s just miserable that they probably won’t. I convinced Bruce and Patty to go to a counselor with Karl, but I don’t know if it will help.
It's time for your first session with Karl and his parents.
Maya Winfrey (Me) Thank you for coming in today. Bruce, Patty, Karl, it’s nice to meet all of you. Now, I see from your informed consent that you all are here to talk about some family issues that have come up around Jordan and Karl’s impending marriage.
Bruce: Are you a Christian counselor? Patty: We need to know this. We need a counselor who understands our beliefs and why this farce of a marriage CANNOT happen!
How should you respond?
Maya Winfrey Karl, how are you feeling, hearing this from your parents?
Karl: I just want to share one of the best experiences of my life with my parents. I love them dearly and I can’t imagine getting married without them there.
Conclusion
Now what? As a clinician, you face a difficult situation. The end goal is to salvage their relationships, but there are many aspects of this family that need to be addressed.