Internalized Oppression and Indigenous Peoples

Internalized Oppression and Indigenous Peoples

Internalized oppression refers to the psychological process in which members of an oppressed group come to believe and act upon negative messages about themselves that they have received from the dominant culture. This can include feelings of self-doubt, powerlessness, and despair, resulting in individuals and groups turning these distress patterns on themselves and their communities.

With racism, internalized oppression can manifest as self-hatred, isolation from other Indigenous people, and lacking trust in one's community. It can also lead to destructive and hurtful behaviors toward other Indigenous people, particularly community members challenging these oppressive patterns.

Therefore, recognizing and challenging patterns of internalized oppression is an essential part of the work toward liberation from systemic oppression.

Dekshi and Brother Phil