Michigan State School of Journalism

The Michigan State University School of Journalism publishes this series of cultural competence guides to help you stay on top of the ever-changing American demographic landscape. Because we can publish quickly, in fewer than 100 days, the guides are current and timely. They are also done in multi-media. The guides have been used by thousands who want to learn more about the neighbors, friends and co-workers, and how major issues of the day affect them. Guides have also been used for diversity training in companies, churches, police departments, universities and as welcome gifts or ways to break the ice. The project is led by Joe Grimm, who has been working in cross-cultural communication for 25 years, beginning as the ombudsman and newsroom recruiter at the Detroit Free Press. As many as 20 Michigan State students work on each guide. The concept is to boost cultural competence by spreading awareness about a certain group or community. Ultimately, the goal is to break down cultural and social walls by encouraging conversation. Students collect questions from members of a selected cultural group and gather answers from polls, surveys, and researchers. Cultural experts review and edit the students' work. The approach is based on the idea that questions asked out of sincere interest are the best ways to bridge cultures. The guides are meant to start that process and to lead to face-to-face conversations.