Abstract

Culturally relevant and responsive social work practice is essential to any social worker’s professional identity, however, little has been written about how one acquires such a sense of self, professionally speaking.  For the bilingual native, negotiating two cultures is an inherent way of living that directly feeds the essence of being and thus informs and shapes the practice of doing.  This essay illuminates the personal and professional experiences of its author becoming bi-cultural and draws on these experiences to offer insights about becoming culturally responsive as a professional social worker.  The emphasis in this article is intentionally placed on the process of professional identity development since much of the literature on culturally competent practice is focused on the acquisition of knowledge, awareness, and skills. Wherever useful, the author also draws on the use of creative narratives such as ethnic folklore, cultural idioms, fairy tales, and koans to support the main ideas.  

Key words: social work; professional identity; bicultural identity; multi-cultural practice