Healing from the Effects of Internalized Oppression Copyright

Healing from the Effects of Internalized Oppression Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Internalized Oppression • Occurs when people internalize the way they are targeted or discriminated against • Operates on individual and group levels • Causes people to view societal problems as their fault Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

How do you heal and overcome? • • • Befriend those who are struggling Celebrate your culture Form groups to heal Act against oppression Point out internalized oppression Protect young people Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Forming a healing group • • • Meet regularly in small groups Confidentiality Use a facilitator Begin with cultural appreciation No interrupting Emotions are part of healing Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Internalized Oppression as a group problem • Group members assume stereotypes • Stereotyping occurs in all parts of the organization • Individuals struggle to believe in themselves Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas

Combating Internalized Oppression • • Be a role model Reward accomplishment Don't blame others Explain it to the group Vent concerns in pairs Take a stand be firm Welcome new members Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas