Colorism is a social phenomenon. Individual focus on healing is 100% necessary, but since none of us got into this alone, we don’t get out alone. The good news is that individual and collective healing are reciprocal! Effort in one area benefits the other.
Global, cross-cultural, transnational. Regional and local variances are important in understanding the nuances of colorism. But so are the global patterns and connections. The color hierarchy is a global one. The system is not siloed. We can leverage solidarity.
Family can be the source of our initial wound. Colorism in families is quite painful, difficult, and complicated. It often happens when we are most vulnerable and have little choice or autonomy.
Agency increases as we mature. We can have the difficult conversations, establish healthy boundaries, apologize, and forgive. We can’t force family to cooperate in collective healing, but we still do our part.
What is your role in the collective?
Everyone has a role. Practically speaking, consider your job, interests, skills, location, resources, connections, and style. And I’m encouraging you to stretch yourself. We won’t redress this issue within our comfort zones. You don’t have to go full time like me, lol. But survey your life periodically and see where there’s potential for change.
Curate your community. Collective healing is not just about what you can give to the group. It’s also important to surround yourself with others who also give in reciprocal fashion. Added bonus when they not only give back but also understand and empathize.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. if you want to go far, go together.” -proverb
Learn more about my services as a speaker, consultant, and coach who specializes in colorism.