What Is Oppression?

• Situation in which people are governed in an unfair and cruel way and prevented from having opportunities and freedom

• The state of being subject to unjust treatment or control

• Mental pressure or distress

• The exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unfair manner

Trauma & Race

Racial discrimination is not only stressful, but recently it has been thought of as a relationship rupture that can evoke symptoms consistent with a pervasive traumatic experience. Symptoms reported are increased arousal states (e.g., anxiety, hypervigilance), somatization, interpersonal sensitivity, obsessive compulsive symptoms, and lasting emotional effects.

Anti-Racist/Anti-Oppressive Practice

• Engage in self-reflection

• Be aware of own biases

• Acknowledge and use advantage in situations of oppression

• Hold program staff and agency accountable to stated values

• Build alliances

Essential Steps

• Trust: It is gained through genuineness, consistency, dependability, and transparency.

• Safety: When people feel safe they are more willing to voice opinions or fears, set boundaries, and form attachments.

• Respect: Providers must attempt to view whole individuals, their perspectives, behaviors, expressed ideas, and experiences from a non-judgmental stance.

• Boundaries: Identifying and remaining respectful of a person’s boundaries is essential to the individual’s sense of safety.

• Cultural Humility: Providers should be aware of how their client’s cultural framework informs their need for services.

• Power: People gain power when they are asked to become part of the decision-making process and are not simply passengers on the journey.