The lens of systemic oppression (Exercise)

• You will need: pen and paper
• Estimated time: 30 minutes

Task description

Systemic oppression is connected to the overarching mechanisms we have discussed in the previous reading. Systemic oppression exists at the institutional level and across interconnected structures that are reinforced over time. Systemic oppression is basically a lens through which we see and perceive the world.

In this activity the goal is to engage in self-reflection and to develop an equity lens.

Look at the Venn diagrams below and read about aspects of oppression. When you are ready, get a sheet of paper and draw the two intersecting circles onto it. Try to come up with some individual, interpersonal and systemic examples for oppression, and write them down.

You can think about oppression related to various part of our identities, but try to think about examples related to sexual and gender diversity. You can think about all kinds of environments in which oppression can manifest, but try to think more about the institutions that are relevant in your field!

After you are ready with filling in the circles, reflect on the following questions in writing:

• How was this brainstorming for you? What emotions have come up?
• Which part of the systemic oppression drawing was easy to think about, and which was more difficult to grapple with? Have you come up with equal amounts of examples for all three aspects (individual, interpersonal and systemic), or were there differences? Why?
• As a mental health professional which of the three aspects do you have a direct effect on?
• Think about all of the aspects and how they relate to your practice: how do you address the individual aspect in your practice? The interpersonal? And the systemic?
• Knowing these forms of oppression now, how can you promote equity in your practice?