Healing from the Effects of Internalized Oppression

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Healing from the Effects of Internalized
Oppression
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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

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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

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Forming a healing group

• Meet regularly in small groups
• Confidentiality
• Use a facilitator
• Begin with cultural appreciation
• No interrupting
• Emotions are part of healing

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Internalized Oppression as a group problem

• Group members assume stereotypes
• Stereotyping occurs in all parts of the
  organization
• Individuals struggle to believe in themselves

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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 and be firm
• Welcome new members