Why Connecting to Colonization Is The Path To Knowing
The shadows of colonization—the parts, the aspects of myself that I deny or reject—become profoundly relevant when I consider the internalized oppression and inferiority complexes that colonization has instilled in both individuals and societies. My journey of confronting and integrating these shadows mirrors the decolonization process, requiring societies, including my own, to face the internalized beliefs and structures imposed by colonization to heal and move forward.
These collective traumas are not merely personal experiences but are shared across generations, taking shape in our collective memories, myths, and cultural narratives. The archetypes within our collective unconscious are likely molded by these shared traumas, influencing my behavior, beliefs, and the way I form my identity within my society.
The dynamics of colonization are reflected in archetypal patterns of oppressor and oppressed, hero and villain, power and vulnerability. These patterns manifest in our cultural psyche, shaping how individuals like me perceive ourselves and our history. Recognizing and confronting these archetypes is part of our collective healing, allowing for a reevaluation of identity that transcends these binary roles.
The process of individuation, or becoming aware of my individuality beyond societal roles and expectations, proves crucial for people in post-colonial societies. It involves reconciling the internalized colonizer and colonized aspects of the psyche, fostering a sense of self that is not defined solely by the history of oppression but also enriched by one's cultural heritage and personal uniqueness. This individual healing is a vital contribution to the collective healing of society.
I believe in the healing power of symbols and myths in representing and processing our collective experiences of humanity. For colonized societies, creating and reclaiming cultural narratives, symbols, and myths that reflect our own experiences, wisdom, and resilience is a powerful tool for healing. This involves both acknowledging the pain of colonization and celebrating the survival, resistance, and cultural richness that persisted despite it.
Synchronicity, or meaningful coincidences, could be seen as a call for global solidarity and understanding. Recognizing the interconnectedness of all peoples' fates and the shared impact of colonization across different societies could inspire a collective effort towards healing, empathy, and support across national and cultural boundaries.
We have to upend the unconscious patterns instilled by colonization and to foster collective healing involves both introspection and action.
Reflective Questions:
Self-Exploration: What aspects of my identity have been shaped by the history and legacy of colonization? How do these aspects influence my beliefs, behaviors, and interactions with others?
Shadow Work: In what ways do I see the shadow of colonization within myself—perhaps in prejudices, internalized oppression, or feelings of superiority or inferiority? How can I confront and integrate these shadows to move toward healing?
Cultural Reclamation: What aspects of my cultural heritage have been overshadowed or erased by colonization? How can I actively learn about, reclaim, and celebrate these parts of my identity?
Archetypal Awareness: Which archetypal roles (oppressor, oppressed, hero, villain) do I identify with or see playing out in society today? How can recognizing these roles inform my path to personal and collective healing?
Interconnectedness Reflection: In what ways do I recognize the interconnectedness of all peoples' experiences with colonization? How can this awareness inspire empathy, solidarity, and action across cultural boundaries?