Tips for Dealing with Racism

Are you experiencing racism and are unsure on how to go about in dealing with it? To help understand what type of impact racism can have on someone's overall life and tips for dealing with racism, I have interviewed psychotherapist Joan E. Tucker, MACC, LPC / CR, LISW.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.
"I am an African-American Social Worker-Counselor who has been in practice in the fields of mental health and child welfare since 1969. At the present time I teach Child Welfare courses and counsel at Olive Branch Counseling Center. My center has been in existence for 1 year and is affiliated with my church. I am a Licensed Clinical counselor and a Christian counselor as well."

What type of impact can racism have on someone's overall life?
"Racism is a horrible disease that still affects American society. While slavery has been a part of historical cultures, American's greatest problem has been the harsh and cruel reality that Africans brought to this country as slaves by Europeans suffered cruelty and dehumanizing experiences and became recognized as real estate. While white indentured servants gained freedom after their term of service and Native Americans escaped slavery, Africans remain enslaved from 1619 to 1863 because of the color of their skin. There is a book entitled 'Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome' by Dr. Joy Leary, University of Oregon, which explains that the residue of the slavery experience is an ever-present awareness in African-American citizens. I have heard that racism has been termed 'America's birth defect.' Racism affects all "minority cultures" in America."

What are some tips for dealing with racism?
"Acknowledge it first. Read books that deal with the psychosocial effects of racism. Learn about 'White Privilege' and how the dominant culture does not have to deal with issues that have de-humanized and marginalized its 'so-called minorities.' Talk openly to different cultures and understand that there are cultural commonalties, differences, and group norms. While all people have prejudice (pre-judging), racism must always be challenged by baring discrimination and stereotypes. The bottom line is that God created a variety of different cultures and loves all races and cultures."

What type of professional help is available for someone that is having a difficult time dealing with racism?
"Counseling is a profession that deals with a variety of life issues. Persons who have difficulty with racism can talk with a therapist who is knowledgeable about cultural differences and explore their values, beliefs, and attitudes about racism. Bibliotherapy with credible books that address the issue can be a part of the counseling experience. While racism is not recognized as a 'mental health syndrome' the counseling profession recognizes that people are different and need to have multicultural issues addressed. Recognizing socio-political aspects of human relationships can also be addressed in therapy sessions and with institutions that perpetuate oppression on people of color.

Thank you Joan for doing the interview on tips for dealing with racism. For more information on Joan E. Tucker or her work you can check out her website on www.olivebranchcounseling.net or www.therapists.psychologytoday.com..

Recommended Readings:
Becoming a Gang Member

Teaching Problem Solving Skills to Your Child

How to End Power Struggles with Your Child