This keynote presentation will include discussion on content around various inequities that has an impact on the assessment and treatment processes in the field of speech pathology. Our conversation will begin with a discussion of cultural diversity and how it incorporates many aspects of a client’s identity, intersectionality, defining cultural humility, cultural responsiveness, and the impact of the social determinants of health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2003, the social determinants of health are the “social conditions into which people are born and that affect their daily lives and their overall well being as they move through life.” These key concepts have a profound impact on patient care. As education and healthcare professionals we must be aware of these concepts to make steady change. Transformation requires a shift in perspective, it also involves appreciating the diversity of our clients and utilizing the expertise of colleagues in our respective settings.

Keywords - cultural humility; cultural competence; cultural responsiveness; cultural awareness; self-reflection

Submission Statement: Cultural humility includes the ability to reflect, respect, and respond. Humility includes four key elements: self-reflection/self-critique, learning from others, partnership building, and a lifelong process. This includes an attitude of openness, self-awareness, egolessness, and supportive interactions. Practicing cultural humility requires the clinician to start where the client is at.