Fear of Open Conflict

Unpacking the Pillars of Supremacy Culture

Introduction: The Journey of Decolonization and Healing

Laying the Foundation for Decolonization and Healing

Welcome back to our ongoing blog series, "Unpacking the Pillars of Supremacy Culture". In this installment, we delve into a critical aspect: the "Fear of Open Conflict".

I will admit that this article is intentionally longer and more intricate than previous articles due to the times we are in at the moment. I strive to provide a comprehensive ‘beginners guide’ if you will to the concepts of supremacy culture, liberation, and decolonization. However, this article is more fleshed out in order to deal with inevitable conversations about world events, such as the active genocide and displacement of Palestinians, the uptick in Antisemitic violence, the ongoing AntiBlackness and racism, as well as an election year here in the United States. It is my fervent hope that this article will be used as a tool to navigate the fear of open conflict that is so deeply ingrained and woven into supremacy culture.

I also highly suggest the tools offered by Dr. Sundiata Soon-Jahta (he/him) of Grow Dialogue in order to navigate a more authentic dialogue. You can find those resources here. Now let’s begin!

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In a world intricately woven with diverse threads of cultural narratives, supremacy culture often operates insidiously, perpetuating paradigms that hinder our collective journey toward decolonization and healing.

A critical pillar of this culture is the "Fear of Open Conflict." This article aims to dissect this phenomenon, illustrating its pervasive impact on various aspects of our lives, from workplaces to personal relationships. As a trauma-informed decolonization counselor and educator, I recognize the significance of addressing these pillars to foster healing and community building. Let's explore how this fear permeates various facets of our lives, from work environments to interpersonal relationships.

Section 1: The Roots of Fear in Conflict - A Historical Perspective

From Generational Trauma to Hegemonic* Norms (*ruling or dominant in a political or social context.)

In this section, we trace the origins of the fear of open conflict. Understanding its roots in generational trauma and hegemonic structures is essential. We examine historical contexts, focusing on how colonial and monolithic paradigms have shaped our approach to conflict and confrontation.

Tracing the Legacy of Colonialism and Its Impact on Conflict Dynamics

In understanding the fear of open conflict, it is crucial to trace its origins back to the legacies of colonialism and the hegemonic structures that emerged from it. Colonial history across the globe has left a profound impact on societies, shaping their cultural, social, and psychological landscapes. This history is not merely a relic of the past; it reverberates through generations, influencing how we perceive and handle conflict today.

Generational Trauma and Its Role in Shaping Fear

Generational trauma, a concept deeply rooted in the experiences of colonized peoples, plays a significant role in fostering a fear of conflict. This trauma is passed down through generations, not just through stories, but as a deep-seated emotional and psychological legacy. For many, historical experiences of violence, oppression, and subjugation under colonial rule have led to a collective fear of confrontation. This fear is often rooted in the very real consequences that their ancestors faced when challenging authority or voicing dissent.

The Hegemonic Grip on Conflict Resolution

Hegemonic structures established during colonial times continue to influence conflict resolution strategies. These structures, favoring a certain group's norms and values (often the colonizers'), have historically marginalized indigenous and local methods of conflict resolution. As a result, there is a tendency to view conflict through a lens that is not only Westernized but also steeped in the power dynamics of the colonizer and colonized. This perspective often demonizes open conflict, viewing it as a breakdown of order rather than an opportunity for dialogue and change.

Colonial and Monolithic Paradigms in Conflict Approach

The colonial and monolithic paradigms have fostered a simplistic and binary approach to conflict. This approach often fails to acknowledge the complexity and nuance inherent in human relationships and societal structures. In these paradigms, conflict is often seen as a zero-sum game, where one party's gain is the other's loss, reinforcing a fear of open confrontation. Moreover, these paradigms have often suppressed indigenous and local conflict resolution practices that emphasize collective well-being, community involvement, and restorative justice.

The Role of Education and Narratives in Perpetuating Fear

Education systems and societal narratives, often relics of colonial rule, continue to perpetuate a fear of open conflict. By glorifying certain histories while neglecting or misrepresenting others, these narratives create a skewed understanding of conflict and its resolutions. They often promote a singular, homogeneous way of dealing with disagreements, leaving little room for alternative, perhaps more inclusive, and empathetic, approaches.

The fear of open conflict is deeply intertwined with our historical and cultural fabric. By unpacking these layers, we not only gain a deeper understanding of this fear but also begin to see the potential for alternative approaches to conflict that are more inclusive, empathetic, and effective. This understanding is crucial as we move forward in our journey of decolonization and healing.

Section 2: The Anatomy of Fear in Supremacy Culture

Understanding the Underpinnings of Avoidance

The fear of open conflict is not merely a psychological response but a cornerstone in the architecture of supremacy culture. It thrives in environments where homogeneity is valued over diversity, leading to a suppression of dissenting voices. In this section, we explore how supremacy culture creates a homogeneous space, suppressing Black, Indigenous, Immigrant, and alternative viewpoints in favor of maintaining a monolithic narrative. Let's explore how this occurs:

1. Establishment of a Dominant Narrative

Supremacy culture establishes and maintains a dominant narrative that reflects and upholds its values and beliefs. This narrative is often rooted in colonial, patriarchal, or elitist ideologies that prioritize certain experiences, histories, and perspectives over others. By continuously promoting this singular narrative, supremacy culture effectively diminishes the validity and visibility of alternative stories and histories, especially those of indigenous and marginalized groups.