#psychological-harm

The Silent Violence of Erasure

TL;DR: Erasing people’s existence or history inflicts deep psychological harm, perpetuating cycles of trauma.

Erasure is violence. It’s a silent, insidious force that strips away identity and history. When we deny someone’s existence or rewrite their past, we’re not just altering facts—we’re inflicting trauma.

Imagine waking up one day to find your history erased, your identity questioned. This isn’t just a hypothetical scenario; it’s a reality for many marginalized communities. The violence of erasure manifests in various forms, from the denial of indigenous histories to the whitewashing of LGBTQ+ narratives. It’s a pervasive issue that demands our attention.

The Cycle of Trauma

Erasure isn’t just a one-time act. It’s a cycle that perpetuates trauma across generations. Consider these points:

Identity Crisis: When history is erased, individuals struggle with identity. Who am I if my past is denied?

Psychological Harm: The constant invalidation leads to anxiety, depression, and a sense of worthlessness.

Perpetuation of Injustice: Erasure allows systemic injustices to continue unchecked, as the stories of those affected are silenced.

A Recent Reminder

The recent controversy surrounding the erasure of certain historical figures from educational curricula highlights this issue. By denying students the full spectrum of history, we perpetuate ignorance and bias.

Breaking the Cycle

Addressing the violence of erasure requires conscious effort. Here’s how we can start:

Acknowledge and Educate: Recognize the histories and identities that have been erased. Educate yourself and others.

Amplify Voices: Support platforms and initiatives that give voice to marginalized communities.

Demand Accountability: Hold institutions accountable for perpetuating erasure.

Erasure is a form of violence that leaves deep scars. It’s time we confront it head-on. How will you contribute to breaking this cycle of trauma?