Getting Next To Ourselves Again: Racism as an Instance of Dissociative Othering

This presentation will explore the notion of double consciousness, a concept used to describe the experiences of African Americans. One holds an internal image of self and, at the same time, holds an image of self-projected by the ‘other.’ The presentation looks at the possibility that this dynamic exists in everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity. Described as intersubjectivity, it recognizes images of self-hidden from consciousness that may be reflected back to us in the ‘other’s’ eyes. It posits that retrieving these images of self from the unconscious can lead to more internal stability and spaciousness. We may become more available for interracial conversations that are less encumbered and dissociated when we can hold competing ideas about ourselves, including the potential shadow elements that the ‘other’ holds of us.

Presented by Michelle Stephens, Ph.D.

Panelists: Athena Carrillo, M.A.; Lynn Alicia Franco, M.S.W.; and Cydny Urbina Rothe, M.S.W.