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1.6 Who am I, First Experience With Race & Sense of Self Brainstorm

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1.6 Who am I, First Experience With Race & Sense of Self Brainstorm

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Theme 1: Who Am I Activity?

1.  Who am I?

I am a female of ethnic culture. I believe that I descended from the cradle of mankind, Africa, from which my forefathers originated under the influence of the massive slavery and slave trade carried out between Africa and the Western world. Even though my Black race is gradually getting recognition, Blacks have always been considered as lesser beings, which has contributed towards discrimination over resources and opportunities.

2.  Who do I pretend to be?

I do not think that I pretend to be anyone. I am proud of who I am. I mean, it does not bring any change by pretending because race or ethnicity cannot be erased. However, I have always marveled at a situation in which one’s race does not matter in interaction, treatment, or access to opportunities. This is also the situation in which, as an African American race, will not be judged superficially and associated with all manners of threats.

3.  Who do people think I am?

Being a female, I would say what people think of me is a little mild. However, I have always believed that people consider me a competitor because I always seize any opportunity. This has contributed to my perception as a threat, hence discrimination in access to services in the non-black communities.

4.  Who do I wish I could be?

I do not think I would wish to be anyone else. I am confident, proud and comfortable with who I am. I only wish that I existed in a neutral environment where one’s race is not a defining factor for their peace and survival in society.

5.  How has race or ethnic identity played a role in any of these responses?

My race has shaped the responses I have provided because of the experiences that the victims undergo. Being considered a “lesser race,” victims like myself often face discriminations that shape my experiences, hence the responses to questions related to myself and my understanding of my race.

Theme 2: First Experience With Race Activity

1. What was your first experience with race?

My memorable experience with race was in the workplace setting in which, as a Black, I was considered as “not smart,” and therefore, I was always denied opportunities or rather opportunities such as promotions were preserved for the White colleagues. This was extremely hurtful.

2. How old were you?

I was 18 years old.

3. What emotions do you associate with the experience?

Honestly, this was a whole shade experience that made me feel worthless, an unwanted and exploited person. I felt like I would never succeed.

4. Have you ever talked about the experience?

In such cases, I normally talk to people I believe can listen to me, and so yes, I have talked about the experience with my parents, whom I believe could help me understand what was happening in my surroundings.

5. How have your early experiences with race shaped your worldview?

The experiences have taught me that the races are not equal since some races view others as inferior. It has also learned that if I succeed, I will have to earn it by bearing my environment.

Theme 3: Positive Sense of Self Brainstorm

After contemplating the first two prompts and our unit content, what connections can be made between having a positive sense of self and our experiences with identity and race? Brainstorm regarding your thoughts on how these concepts are connected. For example, do you think someone who has a negative view of their sense of self can have a positive sense of ethnic identity?

Having a positive self is closely related to having a positive experience with regard to race and self-identity. Our sense of self is often driven and determined by our experiences, especially in our daily interactions and treatments from the people around us and the community at large. Therefore, a person who feels racially welcomed and positively identifies with the race will definitely have a positive sense of self. Since the sense of self goes hand in hand with the experiences concerning race and identity, a person experiencing a negative sense of self will always have a negative sense of ethnic identity because of the negative associations and experiences associated with their race.

Would you assume that a person who identifies positively with African American Psychology might have a stronger or weaker sense of self or ethnic identity? Please explain why.

I would assume that an individual identifying positively with African American Psychology might have a stronger sense of self and ethnic identity. My stand is enhanced by the fact that African American psychology is an eye-opener because it enhances an understanding of the person’s culture, values, and beliefs associated with people of African descent, which are vital in understanding African Americans, including the discrimination they face. This will lead to adequate self-understanding.

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2.4 Ubuntu, Afrocentricity and Nguzo Saba

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2.4 Ubuntu, Afrocentricity and Nguzo Saba

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THEME 1: Ubuntu

The concept of Ubuntu is uniquely African. After reading the assigned reading and analyzing the short video by Dr. Nelson Mandela, do you think that the spirit of Ubuntu is alive and well today in African American culture?

Regarding the explanation and the meaning of the spirit of Ubuntu, I do not think this spirit is alive and well today in the African American culture. Ubuntu, as defined based on the readings and the video, refers to openness as a way of life in a society where people celebrate win-win situations, and a person becomes a person because of another person. It is based on giving out without expecting any return; that is the spirit of trust, caring, respect, sharing, and community. Even though people in the African American culture still share and embrace togetherness, it is a faded spirit of Ubuntu. For instance, unlike in the actual spirit of Ubuntu, in which one would walk to a neighbor’s home at any time, this aspect is very limited in African American culture. I have also chosen this position because in the current African American culture, someone, not even a neighbor, cannot just walk into a home and just be there. They must have something like an appointment, such as calling the host before going to the home, probably to confirm their agenda.

Compare and contrast in detail and provide examples of any parallels/similarities that you have been able to identify between African cultures and African American culture. Has this concept of Ubuntu changed your worldview at all? Explain.

One of the similarities is the essence of collectivism. Even though collectivism is less seriously held in the African American culture than in the African culture, the aspect of collectivism exists. For instance, sharing is a significant aspect embraced across both cultures. Another similarity lies in the concept of time and rhythm. In both African American and African cultures, time is considered fluid because time is not strictly followed. For instance, when people from these cultures are invited to a party and asked to attend at a particular time, let us say, 3 O’clock, the attendants may come after the scheduled time, maybe one hour later.

The concept of Ubuntu has immensely changed my worldview. What has contributed to the tremendous change in the concept of togetherness as outlined in Ubuntu? Why do African Americans show less of the spirit of Ubuntu than Africans? The spirit of Ubuntu has made me view the world from a capitalistic point of view in which people are gradually becoming more self-centered than before. This limits the sense of sharing.

THEME 2: 7 Concepts of Afrocentric Psychology

Choose and define the concept that you feel is most present in the African American community. Provide an example of how you have witnessed the concept you have chosen.

The concept I feel most present in the African American community is Maafa. Maafa is a term for the African enslavement by powerful races such as the Europeans. It is also related to the humiliation and destruction of Africans, which is presently evident in the inherent discrimination against African Americans. For instance, I have been a victim of segregation at my workplace, in which I could not be granted promotion opportunities. At the same time, my White colleagues could easily access the opportunities and be promoted.

Then, define and provide an example of the concept you feel is least present in the African American community. Also, provide an example.

The inclusive metaphysical epistemology is the least present concept in the African American community. This refers to the notion that reality is beyond the meaning provided by the five senses. For example, knowledge is an abstract aspect that one does not have to develop a particular formula to acquire it.

THEME 3: 7 Principles of Nguzo Saba

Choose one of the 7 Principles of Nguzo Saba and define it on your Padlet. Then explain why it resonates with you and how you feel you have seen this value in action in the African American community. Provide an example.

One of the seven principles of Nguzo Saba that resonates with me is Kujichagulia. This term means self-determination in which people define themselves, create for themselves, freely name themselves, and even speak and have their voices be heard. This principle resonates because it is the real experience that the oppressed communities are realizing. For instance, the African American communities, who had undergone oppression and slavery, can nowadays enjoy the freedom of self-naming, define who they are, and even speak and their voices be heard.

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3.4 Three Self-Assessments, Racial Identity Development, and Identity Resource

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3.4 Three Self-Assessments, Racial Identity Development, and Identity Resource

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3.1

1.      State your selections under the category of Natal Measures, and also state why you chose them.

In the Natal Measures category, I chose birthplace of self, siblings, natural parents, grandparents, and ancestral lineages because I feel like they carry a lot of information regarding my ability to understand my self-identity from various perspectives. For example, the birthplace will depict my racial environment; siblings are important in affirming my racial identity, and natural parents, grandparents, and ancestral lineage contain my genealogical history to trace my actual self-identity.

2.      State your selections under the category of Behavioral Measures, and also state why you chose them.

In this category, I chose food preferences, participation in cultural and religious activities, and language use patterns because these aspects determine behavior variation from one ethnic group identity to another. For example, African Americans have specific language patterns different from other groups. Similarly, there are certain types of food associated with the black community. African Americans are also affiliated with certain religious and cultural activities that are unique from others, all of which point out self-identity.

3.      State your selections under the category of Subjective Measures, and also state why you chose them.

In the Subjective Measures category, I picked self-identification of a preferred ethnic group, assessment of own acculturation status, real and aspired self-concept and role models, and preferred reference groups. I have chosen these aspects because they resonate with my sense of self-identity, and I can evaluate myself using them to determine my self-identity. For example, my self-identification with my preferred group indicates that I self-identify as an African American. My acculturation status also helps me identify the culture that dominates my practice before meeting a superior culture.

4.      State your selections under the category of Situation-Contextual Measure, and also state why you chose them.

Here, I have chosen home-family, community, religion, and spirituality because each of these aspects is conducted differently among the ethnic groups. For instance, African Americans believe in spiritualism and dedicate more time to religious activities. Home-family is another significant aspect, as most African American communities value the essence of home and family and the role of togetherness. These play a vital role in self-identity.

3.2

1.      My Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure score is (45).

2.      To me, this score means that (I have a sense of ethnic identity and bonding with people of my ethnic background.)

3.      I think that this means that I have a (strong) bond with the (Black or African American group) because (that is the group to which I belong)

4.      Explain anything that surprised you about this analysis.

I find it surprising that I cherish my ethnic background that much until I encountered the test question.

3.3

1.      State your score after taking the Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale.

My score based on the scale is 27

2.      State what your score means to you and your understanding of your self-esteem.

My score means that I have above-average self-esteem. In my understanding, it also means that I like myself.

3.      State why you believe your score is the number that it is. Provide examples.

My score is the number because I am usually a positive person who is not easily overridden by negative thoughts. For example, whenever I am faced with a challenge, I believe in my ability to navigate and solve the problem skillfully. I also feel that I can do anything any other person does. In other words, I normally feel like I am on the same level as others.

3.4

1.      State your stage of Racial Identity Development (they are in bold on the summary document provided).

My stage of racial identity development is the internalization-commitment stage.

2.      State why you think that you are in the stage that you identified.

I have become aware of my personal sense of blackness to the extent that I embrace and love being part of it. I mean, I no longer feel the guilt of the victims of black segregation. I feel more comfortable with my race and the people around me, and I even take part in functions that uplift community members.

3.      Provide an example of how you know that you have passed through all the previous stages.

I have realized that I have passed through all the previous stages because there are some feelings that I used to have regarding my race that I no longer feel. For example, in my pre-encounter stage, I used to hate myself for being black, especially in my childhood, because of the notion that black people are disadvantaged in a white community. Unlike in my encounter stage when I used to be moved by targeted racism, especially when I was considered as “not smart” in a workplace, I currently embrace such occurrences and fight for my rights for equal treatment. Another example that proves my successful pass of the immersion/emersion stage is that I tend to embrace everyone and everything around me, whether Black or White, unlike before when I never wanted to associate with any symbol of whiteness. As evidence of passing the internalization stage, I feel that I understand the sense of blackness and what it means to me, unlike in the internalization stage, in which I only expressed pro-black attitudes.

4.      State one thing that you learned from this process.

I have just realized and learned that there is always a racial identification development process that we undergo unconsciously, marked by differences in our behaviors about racial identity that are different from the behaviors and feelings we had during our young age.

3.5

·         You will post your identity resource to your Padlet and explain, on your Padlet, why the resource is important to you. You will also include/reference this resource and information in your essay.

My chosen resource is a TEDTalk by the Nigerian Novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, called “The Danger of a Single Story” (https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?subtitle=en). I have chosen this resource because it explores racial identity and how we can embrace one another’s race. For instance, she talks about listening to stories from all sides rather than making judgments based on one-sided stories. This enhances racial understanding and harmony, which I think is necessary for my internalization and racial identity development stage.

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Our lives, our cultures, are composed of many overlapping stories. Novelist Chimamanda Adichie tells the story of how she found her authentic cultural voice -- and warns that if we hear only a single story about another person or country, we risk a critical misunderstanding.

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Theme One: Types of Racism

1.      Please post a response to the google slide above. What types of racism from slide 2 have you seen in the world? What examples from slide 3 have you seen in the world?

Based on slide 2, I have seen institutional racism. For example, I have seen an African American origin lose a job opportunity as a white employee seizes the same opportunity under similar qualifications. I have also experienced or seen cultural racism. This specifically rose from the linguistic context in which the people speaking the African American Vernacular English were associated with inferiority and violence. The African American Vernacular English is always considered inferior to the American English.

In slide 3, the examples are part of internalized personal superiority. I experienced this, especially in my high school, in which I saw some white students carry themselves with vigor over the black students or students from other races.

2.      From the chapter reading, do you think that we live in a post-racial society? Please state why or why not.

I do not think that we are living in a post-racial society because racial prejudices are still eminent, especially in the U.S. These can be seen in the political divisions and even in some institutions.

3.      What is your personal definition of race and do you think that race is a social construct, a biological construct or something else? Please explain your reasoning.

My definition of race is that race is a fabrication implemented to group people based on their physical features, such as the colour of their skin. I believe that race is a social construct because it is a classification approach implemented by people to define populations based on their physical disparities and later used as a violence and oppression tool.

4.      Search and find one resource regarding race being a social or biological concept and post it to your Padlet. State its significance and if you agree or disagree with the resource based on your definition of race.

The article debunks the notion that people from other races, such as the Blacks, are physiologically affected in a particular way, different from other races, such as the Whites. It reinforces the idea that race is a social construct, and therefore, I agree with it.

Bryant, B. E., Jordan, A., & Clark, U. S. (2022). Race as a social construct in psychiatry research and practice. JAMA psychiatry, 79(2), 93-94. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10519151/

5.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. State its significance.

The most outstanding lesson for me is that even though it might appear as if we are living in the post-race era, race and racism are still prevalent in our society. The lesson enabled me to be aware of the racism in my environment.

4.4 Race and Racism: Racial Microagressions

Theme Two: Racial Microaggressions Podcast

1.      Please post a response to the audio clip above. What types of "isms" can you identify in the audio clip above? What types of racism did you notice in the audio clip? Give examples.

I can identify sexism (the listener from Washington D.C is told that she does not look like a lesbian) and ableism (Colayla's ability to be articulate is doubted by the woman being that she is black)

Cultural racism: This is driven by Colayla's comment after a woman complimented her that she was articulate. Being a Black person, she asked herself whether the woman meant she spoke so well for a Black person.

Individual racism: The woman believes that Black people are not articulate, suggesting that only white people are.

2.      From the chapter reading, do you think that we live in a post-racial society? Please state why or why not.

I do not think that we are in a post-racial society because racism is still eminent, especially cultural and individual racism, as identified above. Most of the confessions among the victims of racism are current, meaning that racism is still a challenge in society.

3.      What is your personal definition of race and do you think that race is a social construct, a biological construct or something else? Please explain your reasoning.

I believe that race is a constructed way of categorizing people based on their physical appearance. And so, yes. Racism is a social construct implemented as a tool of differentiation and discrimination.

4.      Search and find one resource regarding race being a social or biological concept and post it to your Padlet.

This article attributes race to a biological construct that is passed from generation to generation. I oppose this perspective because people from different races have different genetic composition.

Anemone, R. L. (2019). Race and human diversity: A biocultural approach. Routledge. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Robert-Anemone/publication/331239564_Race_and_Human_Diversity_A_Biocultural_Approach/links/5f3ef390458515b72936f53e/Race-and-Human-Diversity-A-Biocultural-Approach.pdf

5.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. State its significance.

I have learned that people face discrimination from various levels other than race. This includes sex. The significance of this lesson is that it enables me to determine discrimination from an individual perspective.

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Race as a Social Construct in Psychiatry Research and Practice

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In scientific studies, the social construct of race is often conceptualized as a biological variable, supported by the false historical narrative that there are inherent biological differences between racial groups. This scientific error has led to decades of flawed practices in the medical setting,1 contributed to ongoing health disparities,2 and reinforced racial biases in diagnosis and treatment rationale.3 The notion of race as a biological determinant in research has contributed to the perpetuation of negative stereotypes and further stigmatization of minoritized racial and ethnic groups. Due to the reciprocal interdependence of research and clinical practice, these false notions extend into the clinical realm, impacting patient outcomes. Additionally, results from these studies are frequently used to determine policies, practices, and resource allocations throughout medicine and society more broadly. We must therefore consider fully how misinterpretation of research findings contributes to the ongoing oppression of minoritized racial and ethnic groups and perpetuates racism by obscuring the underlying causes of racial disparities. Below, we focus on race as a biological factor and its contribution to misdiagnosis and health disparities in the area of mental health for Black individuals. We also discuss the appropriate use of race in mental health research and provide recommendations on how clinicians can aptly use race to inform practice.

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1.      From the reading, what do you think makes the Black family unique? Please provide descriptive examples.

I think that the uniqueness of the Black family is evident in their social activism and community. For example, the Black family emphasizes solidarity, the essence of community, and general social justice. These are evident in the mutual support that they give one another, which involves even the extended family members. Social justice is obtained in their enlightenment of the younger generation concerning the awareness of their race, heritage and tradition as well as how to behave in the racially sensitive society to service racial injustices.

2.      What do you think are the strengths and challenges of the Black family? Please state why you think so and provide examples.

The Black families have various strengths, including enhanced kinship bonds. This is because the Black families are close to one another and often support one another. For example, families do not only get help from the nuclear family but also from the extended members, and even the grandparents provide care to their grandchildren. Similarly, the families also enjoy egalitarian marriages (Brown University, 2019). This is because they understand one another to withstand the harsh racial realities surrounding them. For example, they often marry amongst themselves to remain strong.

The challenge the Black families face, especially in race socialization, is handling the reality of a racially sensitive society, specifically with their children. For example, some of the realities, such as inoculating the children with the pride of the Black people, may not be developmentally appropriate for them. The kids experience some things that they should not be experiencing at their age, hence making it hard for the parents to socialize them racially.

3.      How do concepts such as racial socialization affect parents and children in Black families? Please explain.

The concepts like racial socialization make the parents hypervigilant. The parents become prepared to enlighten their children on the kind of society in which they live and consequently teach their children the perception of their race in the society and also what is expected of them if they face racism situations so that they can survive in the racially sensitive society.

Racial socialization also has an impact on children in that it enables them to learn about their racial heritage. For example, the children learn about their racial background, including how they came to America. They also learn and beware of racial discrimination associated with their race.

4.      Based on our reading, what factors do you think have impacted Black families the most since slavery and why?

In a positive sense, the Black families improved under civil rights activation and emancipatory pursuits. This is because, after slavery, African American members were legally granted the right to marry and even experienced an increase in two-parent households with fathers joining their families.

Some of the factors I think negatively impacted black families included the mass incarceration resulting from the war on drugs in the 1980s and 1990s. This is because the Black families were disoriented as most of the men ended up not marrying as most of the Black family members were involved in drug activities.

5.      Search and find one academic resource that helps you understand this topic better and post it to your Padlet. State three main points from the resource and how it helps you understand this topic.

The points I have obtained from the article by Cross, C. J., Nguyen, A. W., Chatters, L. M., & Taylor, R. J. (2018). Instrumental social support exchanges in African American extended families. Journal of family issues, 39(13), 3535-3563. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/0192513X18783805, are:

i.            The members of the African American families gave support to the other family members and also received support, especially on occasions such as illness.

ii.            The solidarity manifested among the Black families enables the individuals to give more help than they receive, whether on chores, financial support or transportation.

iii.            The Black families provide reciprocal family support, something that has strengthened their kinship and family ties.

This article is significant in understanding the topic, especially regarding how the Black families were able to strengthen their families and kinship. For instance, most families are known for borderless support for one another in the nuclear and extended families.

6.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit. State its significance.

One thing that stood out for me in the readings is the concept of racial socialization in which the Black family members, especially the parents, raised awareness of racial sensitivity in their children. This is significant as it helped the children to not only know their racial heritage but also enable them to adjust and learn how to conduct themselves whenever they encounter racial violence in society for their survival.

References

Brown University. (2019). Strength and Resilience in African American Families. Www.youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeVNVTQYwss

Cross, C. J., Nguyen, A. W., Chatters, L. M., & Taylor, R. J. (2018). Instrumental social support exchanges in African American extended families. Journal of family issues, 39(13), 3535-3563. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/0192513X18783805

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Identity resource:

TED. “Your Identity Is Your Superpower | America Ferrera.” YouTube, 10 July 2021, www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQJhRDbsDzI.

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Theme one: The Diversity Challenge in STEM Education and STEM Careers

1.      What factors do you feel contribute to the disproportionately low numbers of African Americans represented in STEM education classes and in the STEM field?

I feel like factors such as race largely contribute to the low numbers of African American students because people of color are often discouraged and considered poor in science subjects. This leads to the second factor of the stereotype threat that the few African American students who make it to the STEM classes develop, which makes them doubt their capacities (TEDx Talks, 2017). They develop the fear of sounding silly in response to the questions assigned to them in discussions.

2.      What role do teachers play in shaping the expectations of students and fostering the interest of students in STEM education classes?

The teacher supports and fosters the students by recognizing their efforts and giving them roles that boost their interest, such as presiding over class discussions or leaving them the class to teach. The teachers can also trust the ability of the students to deliver in their STEM classes to enhance their confidence.

3.      How do you think the implicit bias of educators affects minority students who express interest in these subjects?

The implicit bias discourages students from being interested in STEM subjects. According to Long (2016), female students feel left out and discouraged as they are overlooked in the science and math classes, resulting from their educator's gender biases, which consider them inadequate for the subjects.

4.      How does this information contribute to the Imposter Phenomenon in the educational system and in the workplace for African Americans?

The African American students or workers fail to realize and internalize their accomplishments as they fear being perceived as fraud. This is because the students or the workers always live with the stereotype that they are inefficient in their abilities and that only the whites have the powers needed for better performance.

5.      State one strategy that you think could be implemented to counter the struggles identified in the video and reading.

Changing the perception of STEM as portrayed in the media. This may involve industries such as the entertainment industry, which is a powerful tool in changing the public perception of STEM jobs and the people who are supposed to undertake the jobs, especially regarding gender discrimination in the STEM field. The industry can abnormalize inequality and stereotypes discouraging minorities. This includes using the role-modeling approach in which the female characters engage in computer coding.

6.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

From the reading, "Students of Color Overpoliced and Segregated," I have learned that the academic efforts of the students of color were not recognized. Instead, they were overly policed to increase their chances of spending their time in the criminal justice system. The segregation has not only befallen general education; I have learned that the students are also segregated in STEM subjects.

Theme two: The Imposter Syndrome and Women of Color in the Workplace

1.      What is the Imposter Syndrome?

Based on the video clip, Morgan Jerkins defines Imposter Syndrome as the inability of a person to absorb their accomplishments and a constant fear that they will be exposed as a fraud (PBS NewsHour, 2018).

2.      How does the Imposter Syndrome affect a student in their educational journey AND into their career experiences?

The imposter syndrome affects a student in that it causes the student to lack self-confidence in their class abilities. This inadequate self-confidence also spills over into their career in their feature lives.

3.      How does the Imposter Syndrome specifically affect the self-esteem and mental health of African American women in the workplace?

Based on the assigned reading, "Imposter Syndrome Hits Harder When You're Black," Imposter Syndrome lowers self-esteem as it makes women lack confidence in their capabilities in their profession (Doggett, 2019). This has resulted in tremendous mental health problems among them, including stress and the feeling of isolation. Other mental health problems include depression and anxiety.

4.      How do race and gender play into the African American woman's experience in the workplace?

People of color are often judged on their capabilities, which makes them more afraid in their workplaces. Furthermore, their ideas are not regarded as worth considering. These women also feel compelled to appease other people of color they have in a group so that they feel comfortable (Cheeks, 2018). That means that they have to dim their light. Race and gender also play out in the events that the women must find someone in the workplace who can support or vouch for them. The lack of such conditions makes their presence in their workplaces more difficult because of the bias.

5.      State one strategy that you believe would be successful in addressing this issue and improving the workplace for women of color.

One of the best strategies is improving workplace diversity in terms of the employees. Employing people from different cultures makes the employees feel represented and also less dominated, which may lead to bias and discrimination.

6.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

One thing that stood out for me is the impact of the Imposter Syndrome. It not only reduces employees' zeal to work and their self-confidence but also results in mental health problems such as depression. It equally affects the performance of people of color as they lose trust in their capabilities. This equally affects the female students in the STEM classes.

References

Cheeks, M. (2018, March 26). How Black Women Describe Navigating Race and Gender in the Workplace. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2018/03/how-black-women-describe-navigating-race-and-gender-in-the-workplace

Doggett, J. (2019, October 10). Imposter Syndrome Hits Harder When You’re Black. HuffPost. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/imposter-syndrome-racism-discrimination_l_5d9f2c00e4b06ddfc514ec5c

Long, C. (2016, January 26). The Far-Reaching Effects of Implicit Bias in the Classroom | NEA. Www.nea.org. https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/far-reaching-effects-implicit-bias-classroom

PBS NewsHour. (2018, March 5). When someone does not expect greatness from you, here’s what to tell yourself. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_G7gNIR7zFc

TEDx Talks. (2017). Defeating the inner imposter that keeps us from being successful | Knatokie Ford | TEDxMidAtlantic. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9PgY1mbPgM

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6.6 Two Page Racial Autobiography Paper Feedback Discussion

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6.6 Two Page Racial Autobiography Paper Feedback Discussion

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7.6 Intersectionality, Bias and Microaggressions

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7.6 Intersectionality, Bias and Microaggressions

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Theme: Racial Microaggressions

1.      What would you say are the psychological consequences of experiencing subconscious racial slights as a person of color?

The consequences of experiencing the subconscious racial slights are that people of color feel undermined. People around them, especially Black people, are surprised that they are intelligent, as seen in Khalyla's case. This is a metacommunication underlying the racial slights that undermine the capability of the people.

2.      What stereotypes are perpetuated when racial microaggressions are thrown around towards a person of color?

One of the stereotypes often read from microaggressions thrown around towards a person of color is that they are unintelligent and inarticulate. This is quite clear from Khalyla's response after her presentation to a crowd of people. A white woman approached her and told her she was articulate and spoke so well. Generally, the woman indirectly told her she spoke so well for a black person. Similarly, the people also feel stereotypically minor among other communities, such as the white community.

3.      Considering Intersectionality, what other issues does this theme affect in the African American community?

The theme addresses the mental health problems of the recipients. For instance, when they face constant microaggression regarding their color, minority, and how unintelligent they are, they develop a sense of loneliness, anger, depression, anxiety, and a lower sense of psychological well-being. This generally negatively affects their problem-solving capabilities in class and generally in life. It also lowers their health as they are often faced with diseases such as high blood pressure because of the circumstances of rejection they have to deal with.

4.      State how these theories of Intersectionality, racial microaggressions, bias or white privilege affect one's understanding of "sense of self" or ethnic identity?

These theories affect one's understanding of a sense of self in various ways. For instance, microaggressions can make a person question their identity. An example is what Sara experiences, where she is informed by most people around her that she does not look gay and that she is pretending in the way she dresses. This makes her question whether she is really gay when, internally, she identifies as gay. The racial microaggressions, such as the stereotype that black people like Kalyla speak too articulate to be a black person, trigger her to question how she and the rest of the people of color are perceived in the community.

5.      Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue.

My online source is a TEDx Talk content entitled "Dismantling Microaggressions Through the Power of Connection," https://www.ted.com/talks/toya_webb_dismantling_microaggressions_through_the_power_of_connection?subtitle=en.

I have chosen it because it sheds more light on the topic. For instance, it explores racial microaggression, provides personal experiences of the impacts of microaggression, such as causing low self-esteem among the victims, and also how to counteract racial microaggressions when faced with one.

6.      State a strategy that you feel can be successful in addressing the use of microaggressions, especially when the offender is unaware of how their reactions affect people of color.

One approach to addressing microaggression is adopting an assertive approach in which the perpetrator is assertively addressed by informing them about how their comments or actions have impacted their feelings.

7.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading, or audio material in this unit.

From the provided audio, I have learned that racial microaggression and microaggression generally cause mental problems such as depression because of loneliness. It also lowers the victim's self-esteem.

Reference

Webb, T. (2021). Dismantling Microaggressions Through the Power of Connection. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/toya_webb_dismantling_microaggressions_through_the_power_of_connection?subtitle=en

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Toya Webb: Dismantling Microaggressions Through the Power of Connection | TED Talk

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Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Dr. Toya Webb is a systems’ disrupter, status quo killer and social justice advocate. In her recently published study on racial microaggressions, Dr. Webb explores the impact of commonly held stereotypes while amplifying the voices of African-American women in leadership. A fervent speaker and certified professional life coach, Dr. Webb is a recipient of numerous awards including a YWCA leadership award in Communications and Technology; she has been named one of the Best Under 40 by the Kane County Chronicle and is recognized as a mover and shaker (40 under 40) by the American Association for Women in Community Colleges. With a combined passion for higher education and storytelling, Dr. Webb, a former news reporter, serves as the Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at an Illinois community college and is a member of the Diversity and Equity Committee with the Public Relations Society of America. Dr. Webb has a zeal for reaching the most vulnerable populations, enjoys being a mentor, and is dedicated to helping others find their purpose. She is married to her high school sweetheart and is a proud mom to three sons.

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8.2 Final Four Page Racial Autobiography Paper 

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8.2 Final Four Page Racial Autobiography Paper 

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9.6 Thesis, Direction and Resources for Critical Analysis Project

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9.6 Thesis, Direction and Resources for Critical Analysis Project

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9.6 Thesis, Direction and Resources for Critical Analysis Project

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9.6 Self-Reflection SWOT Analysis of Neighborhoods and Communities

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9.6 Self-Reflection SWOT Analysis of Neighborhoods and Communities

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SWOT Analysis of Neighborhoods and Communities

1.      STRENGTHS: What are the strengths of Black neighborhoods and communities and how have they manifested over time?

Black neighborhoods and communities are usually united in the sense that one can get support from the community whenever it is available. That can enhance the growth of the community. This has been manifested in the communal way of handling a problem. They always come together even in and share among themselves.

The neighborhoods are also guided by the spirit of collective efficacy, like a norm in which collaborative work is done to monitor both the formal and informal institutions at the community level. This helps in monitoring behaviors such as the use of harmful substances, victimization, and violence among the residents. This has been evident in their collaboration when handling a problem.

The community also has a strong relationship. The relationship has facilitated the enhancement of home environment structures and a responsive, supervisory, and warmth among the members for the wellbeing of the community in terms of unified growth. They share resources among themselves.

2.      WEAKNESSES: What are the weaknesses of Black neighborhoods and communities and state one solution to an issue you have raised?

The Black neighborhood is often prone to violence. This results from the efforts of people to survive amidst the absence of resources and alternative constructive survival means. The violence further affects the community's cohesion and togetherness.

The community also has inadequate institutional resources, including schools for learning and medical facilities to provide adequate childcare. Education and healthcare facilities are vital in a community's life as they help generate knowledge from the learning institutions for growth. It also facilitates the healthcare wellbeing of the member. Lack of these thereof in such a community means that diseases are rampant and there is a low employment rate among the people, which leads to underdevelopment.

The solution to the inadequacy of the institutional resources mentioned here is steering for developmental strategies as a community. This may include developing strategic environmental organizations to help enhance a positive and development-reinforcing environment, especially for children, who are the generation of the community. So, changing for a better society can begin with them.

3.      OPPORTUNITIES: What are three ways in which Black neighborhoods and communities could play a role in the progressive movement of the Black community?

There are various opportunities the Black communities and neighborhoods can pursue to enhance their progressive movement. For instance, the members can first engage in political platforms and movements. These are the best platforms for their voices to be heard as they take part in leadership to attract developments to their communities.

Secondly, they have the ability to fight the rampant violence that paints a bad picture of the community and discourages any development in terms of resources, as people fear robbery.

Besides, the community has what is necessary to enhance community building. Community building often requires collaboration and support from one another. This is a necessity for Black community members. They only need to pull their resources to realize the dream.

4.      THREATS: What are three ways in which Black neighborhoods and communities could have a detrimental effect on the progressive movement of the Black community?

One of the major threats facing Black communities and their neighborhoods is gentrification. In most cases, the people are displaced from settlement areas for some alleged developmental programs. However, the spaces are later occupied by the affluent people in the society, hence leaving the Black people in further suffering.

The Black community is facing underrepresentation in both economic development and even in leadership. An example of underrepresentation is evident in the map displaying environmental toxins and the people who live in such areas. Since the housing cost is cheap in these areas, most Black people live there despite the danger of the environment. It means that very few or no one is representing them in the government for attention.

The Black community is still largely in poverty. This has hindered their progressive development. For example, they cannot afford even basic needs such as housing as their statistics show that only 44% of the Black community people own homes.

Inadequate nutrition and healthcare are also a threat to this community. Based on the map showing Low Birth Rates, it is evident that there are high low birth rates in the Black community because of inadequate food to achieve the necessary nutritional needs. This has led to the birth of low-birth-weight children who are vulnerable to diseases like asthma. This menace hinders the development of the community.

5.      Find one resource that helps you understand these themes and post it to your Padlet. State the resources' significance to this unit's material.

The resource that helps me understand the theme is: TEDxDover. (2024). Tedx talks on the Black Neighborhoods and Communities in America - Search Videos. Bing.com. https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=Tedx+talks+on+the+Black+Neighborhoods+and+Communities+in+America&mid=3B7BEEA593B8895452863B7BEEA593B889545286&FORM=VIRE. This source touches on the opportunities that the black people can engage in to develop including pulling up businesses.

6.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

One thing that I have learned is that Black Neighbourhoods and communities are still largely disadvantaged following their rough history of development characterized by inadequate resources and poverty. What stood out for me was the reason behind the increasing violence among the black community. These people are trying to survive after lacking other justifiable means of surviving.

References

TEDxDover. (2024). Tedx talks on the Black Neighborhoods and Communities in America - Search Videos. Bing.com. https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=Tedx+talks+on+the+Black+Neighborhoods+and+Communities+in+America&mid=3B7BEEA593B8895452863B7BEEA593B889545286&FORM=VIRE

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On the Padlet that you have already created, you will answer the following questions.

1.      State the most important thing that you learned from this unit's readings and how it has deepened your understanding of Black male and female interpersonal and close relationships.

I have learned that the number of unmarried African American women is increasing, especially those who are learned and are in their forties. I have learned that one of the major reasons is that African American men often marry women outside their race while women are rarely married out of their race, hence lowering the ratio of African American men to women available for marriage. Similarly, women tend to prefer men with financial stability while men only value honesty, hence making it hard for women to get their preferred men, while men can easily get a woman from a low socioeconomic background. From this, I have learned that the interpersonal and close relationships between the Black male and female, if faced with challenges, link it to the imbalance in the open marriage. I have also understood the challenges facing the Black community, especially between men and women, that lead to the increasing number of unmarried learned women.

2.      How do long-standing stereotypes in the media of African American females being portrayed as property (i.e. in rap videos etc.) affect the psyche of those seeing these images and the African American woman's dating prospects?

The African American women are sexualized. A black girl will never be one without being viewed as sex-oriented. Black girls are always considered to want sex, and this leads to the reason why R. Kelly took so long before being prosecuted because he also seemed to have the same notion about Black girls. This stereotype has lowered the psyche for dating among those seeing the images and the African American dating prospects.

3.      What factors are contributing to the rising number of single Black unmarried females?

The rising number of single, unmarried Black females is led by various factors, including the decision to fight poverty by pursuing education first, which leaves the women spending most of their prime marriage age in school trying to pursue education to fulfil their dreams. Similarly, the learned African American women, especially those with advanced degrees, face high competition from men with college graduates. Another reason is that most women consider financial stability in a man while men only consider simple aspects such as honesty in a woman; hence, men marry even ladies from low socioeconomic status, leaving the learned women.

4.      Why is there a stigma in the African American community against the LGBTQ community?

The African American community is majorly known for conservativism, and faced difficulty in responding to the LGBTQ community within it. It posed a great challenge in opposing the community, which would mean facing racism within its race.

5.      Find one resource that helps you understand these themes and post it to your padlet. State the resources' significance to this unit's material.

Here is the resource:

Stephens, D. P., & Few, A. L. (2007). The effects of images of African American women in hip hop on early adolescents' attitudes toward physical attractiveness and interpersonal relationships. Sex roles, 56, 251-264. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Dionne-Stephens/publication/257663292_The_Effects_of_Images_of_African_American_Women_in_Hip_Hop_on_Early_Adolescents%27_Attitudes_Toward_Physical_Attractiveness_and_Interpersonal_Relationships/links/09e415095179bd7b5d000000/The-Effects-of-Images-of-African-American-Women-in-Hip-Hop-on-Early-Adolescents-Attitudes-Toward-Physical-Attractiveness-and-Interpersonal-Relationships.pdf

This resource is significant to the unit's material since it expands on the point that African American women are discouraged from dating following the sexualization stereotype. In this case, the article explores the effect of public images of African American women in the Hip Hop industry on the lives of adolescents and their attitude towards their interpersonal relationships and physical attractiveness.

Reference

Stephens, D. P., & Few, A. L. (2007). The effects of images of African American women in hip hop on early adolescents' attitudes toward physical attractiveness and interpersonal relationships. Sex roles, 56, 251-264

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12.5 Padlet Discussion: Religion and Spirituality

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12.5 Padlet Discussion: Religion and Spirituality

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12.5 Padlet Discussion: Religion and Spirituality

Theme two: The Yoruba Faith

1.      What is the significance of the Yoruba Orisha faith, also known as Santeria?

Yoruba Orisha serves as a unifying element among the African American people and other communities. Similarly, the Yoruba faith offers followers a deep spiritual past and sense of cultural belonging by tracing their roots to West Africa. Based on the podcast, most interviewees confess that they have been to other religious denominations, such as Seventh-day Adventists, for twenty years. However, they still failed to get a sense and spirit of their lives until they joined the Yoruba Orisha faith.

2.      How does this faith provide a connection back to Africa for those African Americans choosing to join the faith?

Most African Americans believe in the spirit world and respect for their ancestors. Religion is at the forefront of promoting respect for the ancestors and communication with the spirit world, a practice of African Americans. Similarly, the religion connects back to Africa for the new African American believers in the sense that it adopts no leadership structure because there are no bishops, Vatican doctrine, and no Pope, unlike Catholicism (Mitchell (1988). This is the same nature as its traditional origin in Nigeria, where the members worship freely in temples. In the modern era, the santeros and priests operate from their back rooms or homes without following or being under a particular structure. It also connects the new followers to their spiritual origin (Africa) as well as the embedded deep spiritual past.

3.      How does the Yoruba faith treat health and healing in their religion?

The Yoruba faith treats health and healing as a gift from the gods. Those who seek good health and healing provide offerings in terms of animals, fruits, and other food materials to the Orishas, as evident in the case of Flores, who was healed after making the offerings, as illustrated in the article.

4.      Please locate a resource that helps you understand this theme. Analyze the resource and state the most important thing you learned from it about this topic.

The source I have located is a TEDx Talk below:

Kamiye Shayo. (2021). Your Name Your Destiny; Your Destiny Your Crown. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/kamiye_shayo_your_name_your_destiny_your_destiny_your_crown?subtitle=en

From this source, I have learned that Yoruba is not only a faith but also plays a significant role in the naming system with regard to religious meaning among African Americans. As Kamiye reiterates her Yoruba name, Anuoluakamiye, most African Americans are interested in learning the pronunciation of such names, claiming that Africans need to learn and embrace the uniqueness of their names and what they mean. For instance, the name means, “God’s Mercy has counted me worthy to be among the living.”

5.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading, or audio material in this unit.

I have learned that African Americans are interconnected to Africa through the spiritual descent of the Yoruba faith. Most have tried to find purpose, meaning, and spirit based on other denominations but failed until they joined the Yoruba faith. The Yoruba faith provides a cultural and spiritual connection to Africa.

References

Kamiye Shayo. (2021). Your Name Your Destiny; Your Destiny Your Crown. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/kamiye_shayo_your_name_your_destiny_your_destiny_your_crown?subtitle=en

Mitchell, R. (1988, February 7). Power of the Orishas : Santeria, an Ancient Religion From Nigeria, Is Making Its Presence Felt in Los Angeles. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1988-02-07-tm-40762-story.html

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Kamiye Shayo: Your Name Your Destiny; Your Destiny Your Crown

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One pays attention to the family before naming a child. This forms the basis on which Yoruba of Nigeria customs are carried out.

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Theme one: Code Switching

1.      What does it mean to code switch, and how does this affect an African American's success in life?

Generally, a code switch is to alternate between two or more languages among the people who speak multiple languages, especially in the process of speaking. This often happens within the same sentence or phrase. Based on the video, it is what happens when people change the way they express themselves. Code switching enables African Americans to fit into the context of other cultures, such as the White community that speaks standard English, to get opportunities to learn together. It also enhances cultural compatibility and reduces the perceived aggression often associated with African Americans, which has led them into the police hands. An example is the case of Henry Luis Junior, as mentioned in the video. The ability to code switch also enables the participants to gain recognition and even secure business deals with clients.

2.      How does expecting code switching threaten diversity?

It leads to the loss of diversity since people cannot be praised for who they are and where they come from. It also leads to the loss of speech varieties as people from diverse backgrounds get ashamed of speaking their language versions and adopt that of the majority.

3.      How do the effects of code switching intersect with a persons' mental health?

From a positive standpoint, the people who are able to code switch and simultaneously exist in different worlds are more passionate and happier in their worlds and existence. However, those without the ability to code-switch are always ashamed of themselves and their background as they feel like they do not fit into the "larger society." This may lower their self-esteem because of the condescending treatment they may be getting from other people.

4.      Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue.

The online resource is:

MacNeil, R., & Cran, W. (2007). Do you speak American?. Nan A. Talese. https://mymission.lamission.edu/userdata/etherism/docs/104%20HW2.Speak%20American.pdf

The source shines light especially on the awkwardness existing in the absence of code switching or the ability to speak standard English, especially among African Americans when interacting with White people. It paints the picture of a bad taste and a sense of inadequacy of the African Americans. This is evident from the first few paragraphs of the source based on the use of the words "You guys."

5.      State a strategy that you feel can be successful to address the misconceptions about code switching that exist inside and outside of the African American community.

One of the strategies I would propose is recognizing why one needs a code switch to help them fit in society, whether inside or outside the African American community.

6.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

I have learned the significance of code switching, especially among the African American Community. It facilitates chances of their survival and success in the community dominated by the Whites.

Reference

Benjamin, R. (2015). My road trip through the whitest towns in America. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/rich_benjamin_my_road_trip_through_the_whitest_towns_in_america?referrer=playlist-bridging_cultural_differences&autoplay=true&subtitle=en

Theme two: The Language of African American Vernacular English

1.      What is the difference between Standard American English and Ebonics/African American Vernacular English?

Standard American English is understood as the language associated with perfection in terms of grammar and pronunciation and widely spoken by the Whites or a distinctive dialect spoken among the Whites, while the Ebonic or the African American Vernacular English is a dialect distinctively spoken by the African Americans.

2.      How is speaking in Ebonics/African American Vernacular English(AAVE) in the educational classroom traditionally viewed?

Speaking the Ebonics in the classroom setting is associated with inadequacy about the knowledge of the English language. This is because the AAVE is portrayed as broken English.

3.      How can the strengths of dual language speakers be utilized to empower students in the classroom?

The dual language speaker's strengths can be utilized by exposing the learner's dual language. This enables them to acquire bilingual skills that enable them to better understand the learning content area in their native dialect or language, and they also benefit from the new language skills.

4.      Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue.

The source I have selected for the discussion is Pinchinat, P. (2023, May). The Validity of Black English in America. YouTube. https://www.bing.com/videos/search?view=detail&q=TEDx+talks+on+The+Language+of+African+American+Vernacular+English&mid=3C976B2EE61F34E3F1813C976B2EE61F34E3F181&FORM=VIRE

This source emphasizes the worth of African American Vernacular English. Based on this source, the AAVE is associated with linguistic negativities such as problems with grammar and pronunciation. This gives a negative image of the language that has been given.

5.      State one strategy that you think could be implemented to counter the negative stereotypes associated with speaking Ebonics or African American Vernacular English as identified in the video and reading.

One strategy will be accepting and even publishing books in the AAVE language as part of being recognized as a unique language worth using. This will encourage the learners and people in general to show pride when using the language.

6.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

I have learned that the AAVE is a language that is not widely recognized, especially among Standard American English speakers. AAVE is associated with linguistic shortfalls in pronunciation, vocabulary, and even grammar. This has made it disregarded as a potential language.

Reference

Pinchinat, P. (2023, May). The Validity of Black English in America. YouTube. https://www.bing.com/videos/search?view=detail&q=TEDx+talks+on+The+Language+of+African+American+Vernacular+English&mid=3C976B2EE61F34E3F1813C976B2EE61F34E3F181&FORM=VIRE

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Padlet Prompt Option 2: African American Birth Discrepancies

1.      After reading this Washington Post article Links to an external site., can you explain why there are disparities between the amount of pain medication an African American woman would receive compared to other women in the same hospital complaining of pain?

One of the reasons for this disparity is racial discrimination, where doctors at these hospitals mostly disregard complaints that the African American Women patients report regarding their pain than they do to the White women patients. Referring to a 2011 paper relating to Clinical Orthopaedics, Chiu (2018) reports that people from racial minorities often get inadequate treatment for chronic and adequate pain than Whites. This leaves them in more pain than the White women patients experience.

Another reason is a misguided and racially motivated reason that stems from a biological perception that due to the biological differences, the Black people feel less pain than the Whites as Serena Williams attested (Chiu, 2018). This has contributed to inadequate treatment recommendations, hence the racial variation of pain.

2.      What factors are contributing to the disproportionate number of African American infants who die in childbirth and African American mothers who die in childbirth?

Racial discrimination in the healthcare system, most of which is an unconscious bias that affects the birth experience of African American Women. African American Women are discriminated against in the healthcare system, leading to inadequate medical attention, which often results in death in childbirth.

The experience of living in America influences African American women's bodies, which causes low-birthrate babies and high maternal mortality and infant mortality—toxic stress such as aggressions and insults related to race. For instance, these people often think and feel discriminated against at the workplace and by the police. Toxic stress is also related to the perception that African Americans are less intelligent. This burns and consumes these women's inner body, which affect pregnancy and childbirth.

3.      What are some solutions that can be implemented to improve the experiences of African American mothers giving birth and African American infant survival rates?

It is unfortunate that most African American populations, including women, are left out of Medicaid coverage, which has largely contributed to the challenge. Therefore, the first solution is to extend Medicaid coverage and services to include the information to enable them to access indiscriminate healthcare to improve survival rates.

Similarly, there should be a comprehensive education for the people to help them understand their bodies and also stand against racial discrimination. This can be implemented in the policies to help people reduce the instances of birth mortality and even maternal mortality.

There is also a need to change the medical system by preparing the doctors and nurses to face unconscious bias affecting care in terms of the color of people seeking healthcare system.

4.      Find one resource that helps you understand this theme and post it to your Padlet. State the resources' significance to this unit's material.

The resource I have found for this theme is:

Irving, W. (2020). How the US medical community fails Black mothers. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/wanda_irving_how_the_us_medical_community_fails_black_mothers?subtitle=en

This source is significant to the theme or topic in that it stresses the failures of the medical system and the community at large in supporting Black mothers, who are increasingly dying out of the failures.

5.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading, or audio material in this unit.

The one thing that stood out in this reading is that the level of education, economics, or fame does not matter. Racism is a deep-cutting menace in the United States deeply affecting the Black community, especially the women who perish or suffer at the hands of the biased and discriminative medical system.

Reference

Chiu, A. (2018, August 7). Beyoncé, Serena Williams open up about potentially fatal childbirths, a problem especially for black mothers. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2018/08/07/beyonce-serena-williams-open-up-about-potentially-fatal-childbirths-a-problem-especially-for-black-mothers/

Irving, W. (2020). How the US medical community fails Black mothers. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/wanda_irving_how_the_us_medical_community_fails_black_mothers?subtitle=en

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Wanda Irving: How the US medical community fails Black mothers

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In the US, Black women are nearly 300 percent more likely to die as a result of childbirth than white women. Sharing appalling statistics on maternal mortality as well as her own tragic story of loss, Wanda Irving explains how racism and bias in health care minimizes and dismisses Black women's pain -- and makes a personal plea for leaders in the medical community to take steps toward reform.

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Theme one: Health, Illness and Disability: Minority Health Disparities

1.      What are the outcomes of institutionally racist policy choices that exclude the needs of low-income minorities in the healthcare system?

The institutionally racist policy choices have resulted in the inaccessibility of healthcare services to people from low-income households, especially the African American communities. Healthcare services are too expensive for this category of people, hence exposing them to chronic diseases, which consequently results in an increased mortality rate. The racist policies have also contributed to the lack of reconsideration of insurance policies to make it affordable enough for low-income families to meet their healthcare needs. Consequently, most of these people are caught up in stress. Also, the patients have stopped investing in their health because of the expensive insurance cover that leaves most of the low-income families with no other affordable options.

2.      How does the intersectionality of the unconscious bias, distrust in the healthcare system, lack of health insurance and lack of health education affect the African American community?

The intersectionality of these aspects has immensely contributed to the demise of African Americans, specifically health-wise. For instance, unconscious bias has contributed to most African American patients being underserved in healthcare facilities. This situation does less to improve the dire health needs of this community. Distrust in the healthcare system has rendered the AA skeptical in seeking healthcare services, thinking that it is meant to work against them and curb their population growth. This has left most of these people suffering multiple health complications, which are only too late to restore due to a lack of regular medical check-ups. On the other hand, the unavailability of insurance has contributed to unaffordable healthcare services and deteriorating healthcare hopes for the people. Lack of health education has resulted in poor eating habits, which has attracted diseases such as obesity, as Michelle attests.

3.      State THREE strategies that you feel can address the issues raised in questions one and two.

i.            The first approach is eradicating disparity among the people, especially those segregating Black people from accessing vital healthcare services.

ii.            Providing healthcare education to the community about health regarding diet and the importance of seeking frequent healthcare check-ups to reduce vulnerability.

iii.            Provide training programs for the community health workers to appropriately meet the needs of the people without leaving out some groups of people who are traditionally included.

4.      Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your Padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue.

Here is my resource:

Henry Akintobi, T., Jacobs, T., Sabbs, D., Holden, K., Braithwaite, R., Johnson, L. N., ... & Hoffman, L. (2020). Community engagement of African Americans in the era of COVID-19: considerations, challenges, implications, and recommendations for public health. Preventing chronic disease, 17, E83. file:///C:/Users/ADMIN/Downloads/cdc_93359_DS1.pdf

This resource is vital in understanding the topic, especially regarding healthcare disparity. It points out the massive disparity, especially during the recent COVID-19 pandemic in which African Americans, among other minority communities, remained the largest victims affected by the coronavirus against the Whites. This communicates a deep-rooted healthcare disparity, which is racially instigated.

5.      State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

I have learned that the healthcare system, alongside institutionalized racism, has immensely contributed to the dilapidating healthcare situations for African Americans. Alongside the discriminating healthcare policies that do not recognize low-income families, which African Americans largely constitute, these factors deny African Americans access to healthcare.

References

Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2017b). Minority Health Disparities | Michelle’s Story. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlVZKZNXYBA

Henry Akintobi, T., Jacobs, T., Sabbs, D., Holden, K., Braithwaite, R., Johnson, L. N., ... & Hoffman, L. (2020). Community engagement of African Americans in the era of COVID-19: considerations, challenges, implications, and recommendations for public health. Preventing chronic disease, 17, E83. file:///C:/Users/ADMIN/Downloads/cdc_93359_DS1.pdf

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16.3 Final Recording of Film Analysis Presentation

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16.3 Final Recording of Film Analysis Presentation

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Final Recording of Film Analysis Presentation