A new Perspective piece titled Is it time to retire the label “CALD” in public health research and practice? was published last week in the Medical Journal of Australia. It was led by SABII team member Ikram Abdi, and co-authored with Adeline Tinessia (SABII), Abela Mahimbo (UTS), Meru Sheel (IDIE) and Julie Leask (SABII).
Writes Dr Ikram Abdi, “Whilst “CALD” was originally intended to capture diversity in Australia, it often obscures important differences, reinforces othering and may influence programs and policies in ways that don’t always serve the communities it aims to represent.
This isn’t a new conversation. It’s been ongoing across many sectors, with growing calls to move away from the “CALD” label. Our think piece adds to this dialogue by highlighting the need for precise, accurate language in public health. Whilst there’s no single solution, being intentional with our words is crucial, as language shapes how we understand and address inequities.”
Is it time to retire the label “CALD” in public health research and practice? doi.org/10.5694/mja2.52608
Introduction below, click the links to read the full piece.
In Australian public health research and practice, the label “culturally and linguistically diverse” (CALD) is used to encompass a diversity of birth countries, languages and cultures. This term is routinely used in public health to address diversity, to guide equitable access to health resources, and inform inclusive policies and programs. It influences how health research and services are designed and implemented. However, the label has inherent limitations, and its broad application simplifies and masks disparities within these diverse communities. As researchers, like many others, we have also used the label “CALD” as a form of acknowledgement of diversity in Australia. This perspective article challenges the use of the label, recognising its use in current research and practice, while also exploring the need for a more nuanced approach.
Click here to read the full Open Access article: Is it time to retire the label “CALD” in public health research and practice? doi.org/10.5694/mja2.52608
