According to the U.S. Census Bureau, our population is becoming more diverse every day. It shows the overall U.S. population in 2020 was more radically and ethnically diverse than it was a decade earlier. As these numbers continue to grow, it is important that we understand and be more culturally aware.

Cultural Exploration is a monthly program designed to encourage the community to be more culturally aware. The Breathitt County Family and Consumer Science Agent implemented the program, which promotes understanding through learning about histories, sampling of new foods, and experiencing arts of different countries. During the monthly programs thirty-five community members visited countries such as France, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and Egypt. Because of the program, participants learned about the history of the countries, celebrations, traditions, sampled food from those countries, and made art that is prominent in each of the countries.

One participant stated, “I always thought sushi was raw and would never try it, but after learning about the Japanese culture and the foods that they eat, I learned that it’s not all raw and even tried it and liked it.” Another participant stated, “learned that we have a lot more in common with other cultures than I thought.” We all value family and that is especially important.” Participants also stated that they learned how other cultures celebrate holidays, the different traditions they have and enjoyed making samples of the art from diverse cultures.