FEMA on-line course on Religious and Cultural Literacy and Competency in Disasters

The DHS Center for Faith-based & Neighborhood Partnerships and Federal Emergency Management Agency have partnered to produce FEMA Independent Study Course-505: Religious and Cultural Literacy and Competency in Disaster (https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-505).

This free on-line training course provides actionable information and resources for first responders, emergency managers and the general public seeking to increase their religious and cultural literacy and competency as it relates to disasters. This is the only FEMA approved course on the topic is available to be taken via FEMA Emergency Management Institute.

This five-hour course:

·       Explains why we engage religious and cultural communities in disaster, and how religious and cultural diversity and practice is not only protected by law but how it strengthens emergency management’s capabilities.

·       Defines the meaning of religious and cultural literacy and competency in disaster management.

·       Describes how religious and cultural language differs from government culture and language.

·       Identifies the skills needed to competently engage religious and cultural leaders and groups in the field.

Describes each step in the six step “LEADER” process.