Dentons Hamilton Harrison & Mathews’ Post

“Until recently, few people have realized that Japan is such an under-reached country. That seems to have changed in recent years.” Read more on the RTIM blog from Stephen Tipton, Global Worker in Japan, and join us in praying for the gospel to go forth and for healthy churches to be established throughout the country: https://bit.ly/3QCQ27M

Asking someone "Where are you from?" as the first question you ask them can come across as a microaggression, particularly when it is framed in a way that suggests the person doesn’t "belong" or conform to perceived norms of identity. While the question might be intended as a harmless conversation starter, it can inadvertently communicate assumptions about the person’s background based on their appearance, accent, or other characteristics. This can make the individual feel "othered," as though their identity is being scrutinised or questioned. The question often carries implicit biases. For example, if asked to someone from a racial or ethnic minority group, it can imply that they are not seen as a natural part of the community, even if they were born and raised in the same country. This can reinforce feelings of exclusion and alienation. Furthermore, the question places the burden on the other person to explain or justify their presence, which can feel intrusive or uncomfortable. A better way to connect with someone is to start with questions or comments that focus on shared experiences, mutual interests, or the context of your meeting. For example, "What brings you here today?" or "How did you find out about this event?" These kinds of open-ended questions invite conversation without making assumptions or focusing on personal aspects of someone’s identity that they may not wish to discuss right away. In summary, while curiosity about someone’s background is natural, leading with "Where are you from?" can unintentionally marginalise or stereotype. A more thoughtful approach to initiating dialogue fosters inclusion, respect, and authentic connection.

Catherine in Spain 🇪🇸 No. 24 : Are Chinese people cold 🥶 or wam 🔥？ Several days ago I encountered a Russian 🇷🇺lady who was hiking with her Irish ☘️ friend and his baby. When I commented Chinese and Russians often seemed to be cold in the beginning, the Irish gentleman said:” No, Chinese people are so warm🔥. When I lived in China, lots of people checked on me and the community always included me. In the West, however, because of individualism,I have to go the extra mile to make friends. “ This gentleman’s comment is pretty interesting as in Spain lots of people tell me that Chinese people are so cold🥶 . My thoughts: Since in China we have the "foreigners are our international friends" mentality, most people treat foreigners very well. His community viewed him as part of the community, one of them, so they also included him. How is your experience with the Chinese people? Do you consider us cold or warm? #culturaldifferences #internationalbusiness #spanishbusiness #chinesebusiness #china #spain #chineseculture #culturaldifferences #liveinchina #liveinspain #workabroad #liveabroad #chinese #chinamarket #culturaldiversity #culturalawareness #culturalexchange #interculturalcommunication #interculturalcompetence #shareyourthoughts #shareyourstory #shareyourjourney #lifelearning  #culturalawareness #culturematters #chinesetourism #chinesetourists

5 Diverse Traditions of Muslim Tribes in the Philippines: The Similarities and Comparisons into the Rich Cultural Tapestry - https://lnkd.in/g4cCEZ2a

TOP 6 UNKNOWN FACTS ABOUT CHINA 1. China officially recognizes 56 ethnic groups, with the Han Chinese being the largest group, comprising over 90% of the population. The remaining 55 groups each have distinct languages, customs, and traditions. 2. Many Chinese people practice a mix of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, reflecting a rich tapestry of philosophical and religious traditions that influence daily life. 3. Mandarin is the official language, but China is home to hundreds of dialects and languages, including Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Tibetan. 4. Traditional Chinese families often emphasize filial piety, with a strong cultural value placed on respecting and caring for one's elders. 5. Rapid urbanization has led to more than 60% of China’s population now living in cities, transforming social dynamics and lifestyles. 6. Major festivals like Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival are celebrated with elaborate traditions, including dragon dances, fireworks, and family reunions. Keep Connect knowing more Unknown Factor

July 4th is famously known as American Independence Day, but the date also marks a special celebration in The Philippines. Republic Day is celebrated in The Philippines on July 4th and commemorates the day in 1946 when the Philippines ceased to be a U.S. territory and gained independence after 48 years of American rule. In 1962, President Diosdado Macapagal moved the official Independence Day celebration to June 12th, commemorating the 1898 declaration of independence from Spain. July 4th was then renamed as Republic Day in 1964. July 4th is no longer an official holiday in the Philippines, but some Filipinos still recognise its historical significance. The day is often marked by smaller-scale events or personal reflections on the country's journey to independence and its relationship with the United States. When it was recognised as an official holiday, it would be marked by formal dinners and receptions, grand fireworks in the capital Manila and elsewhere throughout the country, tree planting to symbolise independence, and a range of cultural performances such as concerts with the Manila Symphony Orchestra. Today, you will find a 4th of July event at Manila Ocean Park, described as a "spectacular celebration of independence and America's pride," which may acknowledge what is also frequently known as ‘American Friendship Day’ in the Philippines, acknowledging the ongoing relationship between the two countries despite a complicated past. Every Destination Has A Story… #independenceday #exploretheworld #travel #tourism

A human moment- Chinese, Taiwanese, Americans, and a Scotsman celebrate a Mongolian's 13th birthday in the Highlands. Travel and create connections.... there is much that unites us. Travel is fatal to prejuidce, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness - Mark Twain You have to develop relationships with other people so when the tough times come, you can work together. - Gen. Colin Powell Strength lies in differences, not in similarities  - Stephen R. Covey. #txrurallawyer #ruraljudge #profnegotiations #LawManagement #service #tikkunolam #baylorbusiness #spurlock

Very interesting information about the Persian language and the rich culture of Old Persia, offering valuable insights into language learning, traditions, and festivals. It's a great resource for non-native speakers who want to learn about Persian's rich culture. The best part of the website is that Persian is written on one side, with the English version on the other, making it easy to learn and understand.

Pueblo of Zia Language: Keresan Leader Name: Governor Ben Shije About Pueblo of Zia: The sun symbol is familiar to all New Mexicans, for it is the official New Mexico State insignia appearing on the state flag and adopted by the New Mexico Legislature in its salute, “I salute the flag of New Mexico, the Zia symbol of perfect friendship among united cultures." Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/gDPK4yrj #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth