Brown, Indigneous, & AAPI
Who we are?
Welcome to the POC Body Liberation Collective! We are a diverse group of folks who are here to center the voices of our Black community members. We are passionate about creating a safe space for those who have been historically silenced, particularly in the areas of body image, nutrition, fitness, mental health, eating disorder treatment and recovery. We are therapists, community activists, educators, and people just like you who unite in solidarity with our Black Body Liberation Collective.
Why are we here?
We are here as part of the Black Body Liberation Collective because we consciously choose to center the voices of Black community. It is only when our Black friends, Black colleagues, Black neighbors, and Black families are liberated, we can all be liberated. Therefore, we come together to join the Black Body Liberation Collective as People of Color and Indigenous folks because we are stronger in numbers. White supremacy thrives on anti-blackness which is why now more than ever we must use our collective power.
Our representation matters here because the burden of white supremacy is not for Black people to carry alone. Consequently, we must show up with a sense of curiosity, compassion, courage, contectedness, and mindfully move back when necessary. At the same time, we ask for you all to move forward when appropriate. We are here to center the voices of our Black community members because for far too long, these are the voices that have been silenced the most. White supremacy benefits if we do not unite, which is why it is important we show up and are here for the Black Body Liberation Collective.
Why is this different?
Systemic oppression is rooted in anti-blackness which is why we are taking a radical approach and are focusing on Black voices first and foremost. In this collective, safety is one of our top priorities. Historically, BIPOC spaces (while often having good intentions) are not centered on Black experiences. This pattern replicates what goes on in larger societal narratives. Black people continue to not be heard. Resolutely, we are intentionally doing things differently. The POC Collective asks that you continue to do your work around the privileges you hold as well as your social location. Be aware of the space you take up. Ask questions, but please do not expect Black members of the collective to do the work. It is only human to make mistakes. It will be uncomfortable but we must have difficult conversations if we are going to make paradigm shifts in a world that sadly continues to uphold anti-blackness.