In an era where the cries for justice and equality echo across the globe, it is imperative to confront the deep-seated roots of racism and its enduring impact on communities of color here in the United States of America. The Free Square Movement, spearheaded by Pearls of Grace, Inc., is a love advocacy effort aimed at dismantling these injustices through civic engagement, and social awareness. This movement recognizes that intergenerational poverty and prolonged systemic oppression create toxic stress and trauma, stifling the potential of entire communities.

Understanding Historical Injustices

Psychology, since its inception as a scientific discipline in the mid-19th century, has both reflected and reinforced societal hierarchies. The American Psychological Association (APA) acknowledges its history of contributing to racial oppression. Early psychological science often supported human hierarchy, particularly through acts that dispossessed, displaced, and exploited communities of color. The discipline, rooted in protecting Whiteness and White epistemologies, mirrored the social and political landscape of the U.S., leaving a lasting impact on contemporary research and practice.

What is the meaning of Dispossession, Displacement, and Exploitation?

1. Dispossession refers to depriving people of color of land, property, or other possessions. Historically, Indigenous lands were seized during colonization, and practices like redlining which prevent Black and Brown people from owning property.
2. Displacement is the forced movement of people from their homes. This results from gentrification, natural disasters, or economic policies. For instance, urban renewal projects often pushed Black and Latino communities into less desirable areas.
3. Exploitation involves unfair treatment for economic gain. Historically, this includes slavery and sharecropping. Today, it persists in industries where predominantly minority workers are underpaid and overworked.

These systemic injustices have intertwined, leading to socio-economic stagnation and emotional trauma in communities of color. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policy changes and a commitment to equity.

Psychological Science and Racial Hierarchy

Psychological theories and practices have historically protected White interests by validating racial hierarchies. Scientific racism, pathologizing Blackness, and social Darwinism are prime examples. For instance, the pseudoscientific diagnosis of Drapetomania labeled enslaved Africans’ desire for freedom as a mental disorder. This dehumanization reinforced the ideology of white supremacy and justified brutal practices.

Modern Implications and Continuing Bias

Research that perpetuates White racial hierarchy still emerges from various sources. Academic institutions, funding bodies, journals, and individual researchers may inadvertently uphold biased perspectives through selective methodologies and publication practices. The lack of diversity among researchers and participants often results in studies that overlook systemic inequities, further entrenching racial disparities.

The Path Forward: Civic Engagement and Social Justice

The Free Square Movement advocates for dismantling these oppressive structures by promoting civic engagement and social justice. It calls for:

• Inclusive Research: Diversifying research teams and methodologies to better represent and serve communities of color.
• Equitable Funding: Ensuring funding agencies support studies addressing systemic issues and social determinants of health.
• Community Empowerment: Amplifying voices from marginalized communities and supporting grassroots initiatives.
• Educational Reforms: Incorporating critical race theory and decolonizing knowledge production in academic curricula.

A Global Call to Action

The Free Square Movement is not just a national plea but an international one. It urges all individuals and institutions to recognize the interconnectedness of racism, poverty, and trauma. By fostering brotherly love and unity, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Join the Movement

Join us in this crucial advocacy effort. Let us dismantle the remnants of racial hierarchy and build a society rooted in justice, equity, and compassion. The Free Square Movement, brought to you by Pearls of Grace, Inc., is a step towards true freedom and societal healing. Click here for more information about membership.

References:

• American Psychological Association. (2021). Apology to People of Color for APA’s Role in Promoting, Perpetuating, and Failing to Challenge Racism, Racial Discrimination, and Human Hierarchy in the United States. Retrieved from APA Website.
• Cummings Center. (2021). Historical Contributions of Psychology to Racial Hierarchy.
• Helms, J. (2003). Racial Identity and the Culturally Diverse Counseling Environment.
• Santiago-Rivera, A., et al. (2016). Cultural Sensitivity in Counseling.

By understanding our past and committing to systemic change, we can heal the wounds of racism and forge a future where all individuals are free to live with dignity and respect.