Cultural Humility
by Rev. Dr. Aaron Suomala Folkerds
We are living in a divisive world where it can sometimes be challenging to get along with those around you. Cultural humility is a tool that can cut through the division and works to create genuine connection with others. Cultural humility is about having a deep reverence for the other and even holding the other up a little higher than oneself. In addition, it is about learning from the other and being open to understanding how the individual perceives the world. This educational session reviews the history of cultural humility and how it can be utilized in one's daily life.
Recorded Zoom Gathering
Recorded Sept. 17, 2024.
Rev. Dr. Aaron Suomala Folkerds is an Assistant Professor in the graduate counseling program at Minnesota State University-Moorhead. He also serves as the part-time wellness coordinator at the Moorhead Police Department and is the Minister of Mental Health for the Northwest MN Synod (ELCA). He holds a B.A. in psychology from University of Minnesota-Morris, an M.Div. from Lutheran School Theology at Chicago, an MS in mental health counseling from Minnesota State University-Mankato, an Ed.D. in counselor education and supervision from the same institution and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT-MN).
Aaron has had an eclectic career including work as a plumber, painter, roofer, insurance customer service, parish pastor (serving for 5 years in SWMN Synod), emergency medical technician, mental health counselor, and hospital/police chaplain.
In addition to his professional work Aaron enjoys flying airplanes (private pilot), reading, hunting, fishing, traveling, doing house projects, and spending time with his family.
Aaron is happily married to Rev. Mary Suomala Folkerds. They have a son Paul (12) and two exchange students, Esther (17 from Rwanda) and Timea (20 from Slovakia). Aaron and Mary lost their first child, Helena, in 2008 after complications from a heart surgery.
