Self-care and decolonization are intrinsically interwoven concepts, especially for individuals belonging to marginalized communities. While self-care provides a pathway to personal healing and rejuvenation, decolonization challenges the oppressive legacy of colonialism within our societal systems. This article looks at the importance of self-care during the decolonization process, and how it plays a key role in promoting overall well-being and resilience.
B.C. has become the first province to recognize the inherent right of Indigenous communities to provide their own child and family services as a step toward the decolonization process. Indigenous communities will experience new struggles and resistance as they define and develop how they will care for their children. Professionals working in the impacted systems will need to adjust their practice, as they encounter and engage this paradigm shift. Therefore, self-care is essential for ethical practice and to promote the well-being of all.
Decolonization is about recognizing and challenging the colonial legacies imprinted in systems such as child protection and the legal system. It entails a profound transformation in attitudes, understandings and practices, which goes beyond a mere shift in policy. It is about embracing and integrating the rich tapestry of Indigenous knowledge and practices into the existing legal system. But it also requires a deep introspection into the underlying assumptions, beliefs, practices and structures that are products of colonialism. Dismantling current frameworks to rebuild new approaches will mean aggression, resentment and conflict from those benefiting from the status quo. Resilience and self-care will be a crucial aspect of practice for individuals working to promote a healthy system.
The legal profession is notoriously high stress, with lawyers facing long hours, demanding clients and complex cases. These pressures can lead to psychological distress, burnout, substance misuse and suicidal ideation, even without the complexities of the colonial legacy. Recognizing the mental health issues prevalent in the field, there is a push within the legal community to build resilience and support mental wellness.
Radical self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. It is also a crucial component of decolonization. When we care for self, we create the ability to be mindful of how our attitudes, emotions and behaviours impact others. By taking care of self, physically, mentally and emotionally, professionals can continue to work toward rebuilding healthier systems. Self-care is often oversimplified as a series of activities aimed at promoting physical, emotional and mental health. However, at its core, it is a complex, multifaceted process of conscious engagement in strategies that promote healthy functioning and enhance well-being.
Self-care is a complex and diverse process involving purposeful participation in various strategies that boost healthy functioning and enrich well-being across multiple dimensions and aspects of our lives and will be unique to each individual. It is especially crucial for BIPOC individuals who often experience daily microaggressions and macroaggressions, contributing to mental, emotional and physical exhaustion. Decolonization can exacerbate by pushing to the forefront harmful attitudes and belief systems. For this reason, it is equally important for non-Indigenous professionals to be aware of how caring for self translates to reducing harm to others.
The practice of self-care extends beyond the personal realm; it has significant political implications. Self-care is intrinsically linked to decolonization. It involves questioning the status quo, recognizing the layered societal dynamics that perpetuate self-neglect, and transforming these narratives to prioritize one’s own needs. When we care for self, we can better care for community.
The journey toward decolonization is not an easy one. It requires a transformation in attitudes, practices and systems. But with the right support, resources and a commitment to self-care, we can make strides toward creating systems that truly serve and reflect the diversity and richness of Indigenous peoples.