What in the world is decolonization?
As I often do in these blogs, let’s start with a definition, the definition of colonization. Colonization is “the action or process of settling among and establishing control over the indigenous people of an area; appropriating a place.” Simply put, America was built on colonization, the original settled land being called colonies. Colonization damages indigenous cultures by erasing them, controlling them and insisting they adopt the colonizer’s culture instead of respecting differences. In the dark history of America, both indigenous tribes and African traditions were erased. Rooted in racism, entire ways of being are discredited still because it is different from the colonizer culture. This is a deeply traumatic experience for those who have been erased. Colonization is deeply imbedded into our culture and the generational trauma of both the colonized and colonizers.
Now, let’s define decolonization. Decolonization refers to, “the process of a state withdrawing from the former colony; the process of freeing an institution, sphere of activity, etc. from the cultural or social effects of colonization.” While England technically physically decolonized America when they left the territories after America became an independent country, the damage of cultural colonization had already been deep rooted in the landscape of the country, as the country was left to be ran by white colonizers. The United States continued to colonize much of North America, leaving us today with 50 states, as well as, additional territories. Decolonization is the process by which respect for culture is restored, allowing other cultures to thrive and live in harmony instead of imposing one way of living. Decolonization is the process of having enough room at the table for everyone, respecting and learning from one another without judgement or hierarchy of what’s best. It is about respect, honor, giving back what was stolen, and healing generations of trauma. Decolonization is liberation for all.
Questions to ponder.
What sensations do you notice in your body as you think about colonization?
What thoughts and feelings come up as you think about this topic?
How do you relate to the topic of decolonization?
