The Imperative of Becoming Racially Trauma-Informed
Recently, there have been alarming incidents of racially motivated violence in words and deeds.Individuals from marginalised communities, particularly Black women, have been subject to unjustified aggression and trauma. The case of a Black woman being manhandled by transport police for a fare she paid is a stark reminder of our society’s urgent need for a racially aware trauma-informed approach. Working in the field of trauma, I want to share the significance of adopting such an approach to support victims of racial violence and foster a more just and equitable society because race-based trauma exists, and racism is a public health crisis.
A trauma-informed approach recognises the widespread impact of trauma and acknowledges the varied responses individuals may exhibit when faced with distressing situations. In the context of racially motivated violence, this approach emphasises sensitivity towards the unique experiences of victims and aims to create a safer and supportive environment for them to heal, recover and not be re-traumatised. So, trauma-informed care goes beyond addressing the immediate incident and extends to considering historical and systemic factors contributing to racial trauma, ensuring tropes and stereotypes are avoided at the point of service, whether that is an arrest or Zen Buddhism.
Racial awareness is the conscious understanding of racial dynamics and acknowledging historical and present-day racial inequalities. Racial awareness helps society unmask implicit biases, challenge racial stereotypes, and dismantle oppressive structures perpetuating racial violence and trauma. This awareness is crucial for Black women and other marginalised individuals to validate their experiences, reduce the chances of further victimisation, and promote a sense of belonging, self-worth and wellness.
1. Empowerment and Healing: A racially aware trauma-informed enables victims by validating their experiences and providing them with the support they need to heal and recover from the trauma. This approach emphasises empathy and compassion, helping victims regain their sense of agency and control over their lives.
2. Breaking the Cycle: By adopting a racially aware trauma-informed approach, society can break the cycle of violence and victimisation. This approach addresses the root causes of racial violence and dismantles systemic injustices, paving the way for a safer and more equitable environment.
3. Building Trust: Victims of racial violence often feel a sense of mistrust towards institutions and authority figures. A racially aware trauma-informed approach fosters trust and credibility among these individuals, creating a space where they feel comfortable seeking help, giving help and reporting incidents of violence.
4. Promoting Social Change: Adopting a racially aware trauma-informed approach promotes a broader societal change by challenging racist ideologies and advocating for policy reforms protecting marginalised communities’ rights. It encourages dialogue, empathy, and understanding, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.