I had a rather visceral reaction to a lecture and presentation about colonialism that occurred in class about a month ago. The information I had seen before in my undergraduate courses. My undergraduate studies focused on psychology, Native American Studies, and sociology.
I have debated about finishing writing this entry which I began a month ago. That is part of the reason I have not been posting much. I've had this draft sitting since mid September. When I started the MSW program at HSU, I was warned by several faculty and other folks that I may encounter opinions of my classmates that might be upsetting because of their cultural insensitivity. During this class session was the first time I had really noticed anyone openly having a lack of compassion about the material being presented. Rolling of eyes and other body language gave me a new feeling of isolation that I hadn't felt before in the cohort. I do not expect to get along with all my classmates, but I do try to be respectful. I was surprised by the reaction of my peers as social workers in this setting.
Honestly, the whole incident left me disheartened and made me question how culturally sensitive some of my classmates will be with their clients if they can't even manage it with their peers. It will also make me less likely to share anything with the class because now I know it is NOT a safe or supportive environment.
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Winona,
ReplyDeleteFirst off, sorry that I have not commented on this earlier. I find you sharing this to be a great act of bravery, and I hope that many will take it to heart, as I have. I too found that presentation moving, but did not speak up as others brushed it off, and for that, I am sorry.
As a white woman, I have experienced great privilege, and have rarely been in a minority nor been a token anything (besides unique dresser, hardly fitting). I promise to remain vigilant in my actions and reactions to prevent any further pain of both my clients, my classmates, and the greater world around me. Thanks again for sharing this.