Week 4 – Fourth Sunday in Lent
Releasing Internalized Oppression

I was going to call this week “releasing internalized homophobia” but I don’t think it’s really about phobia, which implies irrational fears.

Internalized Heterosexism is a better choice because that places the emphasis the oppressive system, but that doesn’t feel inclusive enough. So, I’ve landed on “internalized oppression” because we often have intersecting marginalized identities and all of the oppressions related to those identities are unacceptable.

So, what do I mean when I say “internalized oppression”?
It’s when you, after having been subject to negative messages about your identity, turn that negativity inward and believe it as truth. As a result, you may experience self-disgust and/or self-hatred.

As we have been doing each Sunday this Lent, let’s review and set some intentions…pen to paper.

What was your experience of releasing self-criticism last week?
After doing last week’s work, what shifts or realizations have you had?

What do you desire to get out of this week’s work?
Set your intentions.
What is your experience of internalized oppression & are you willing to release it?
Journal on it as much as you can…pen to paper.

If The Spirit moves you…share in the comments.