This presentation will highlight the psychological effects of generations of structural racism on African people in America, the Caribbean and beyond. Special focus will be on the additive effect of the global pandemic and police brutality. Dr. West-Olatunji will outline examples of resilience within a historical context that preceded and informed the current wave of social activism and resistance.

The presentation will cover:

• What is intergenerational trauma? How does it manifest?
• Trauma and recovery, ways of healing
• Coping mechanisms
• African survival strategies
• Experiences in Haiti, New Orleans and the wider African Diaspora
• Systemic oppression and mental health
• The intersections between Coronavirus, health care, policing and race
• Commonalities of experience and resistance from around the world
• Plus Q&A

Register here

About the Speaker:

Professor Cirecie A West-Olatunji is a full professor in counselling and director of the Center for Traumatic Stress Research at Xavier University of Louisiana, has received numerous awards from national organisations and has been recognised as a Fellow in the American Counselling Association (ACA). Nationally, Dr. West-Olatunji has initiated several clinical research projects that focus on traumatic stress and systemic oppression. Her publications include three co-authored books, several book chapters, and over 50 articles in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. West-Olatunji has delivered research papers throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

About the Series:

Queen Nzinga was an African Queen who fought against the European invasion of southern Africa (Congo/Angola). The Queen Nzinga lecture series features African female academics / holders of expert knowledge speaking on topics of their choice on a monthly basis. The Nzinga lecture series will provide a regular platform for women of African descent to highlight important issues in an academic setting.