Allison Skinner-Dorkenoo, Ph.D.

The water we swim in: How cultural systems perpetuate biases and what can be done to change it

This talk will make the case that systemic forms of oppression that impact the health and well-being of marginalized groups are maintained and reinforced through subtle patterns of thought and behavior, and present some paths through which those systems can be challenged. More specifically, the talk will hone in on two psychological means through which systemic oppression is maintained and reinforced, biased nonverbal signals and microaggressions. The talk will conclude with evidence that education about the histories and systems that led things to be the way they are can challenge internalized racial biases, and potentially challenge the perpetuation of systemic oppression.