07/28/2023
History Shapes Your Environment
Historically, BIPOC populations have been pushed out of their living spaces intentionally and forcefully. Even if a BIPOC individual hasn’t dealt with community displacement in their own lifetime, generational and historical trauma can still impact their current mental health and quality of life. Forced removal and relocation, redlining (the denial of services to residents of certain areas based on their race or ethnicity), urban renewal practices, and gentrification have all contributed to the erasure of BIPOC communities, their cultural values, languages, practices, and power.
To safeguard from the impact of displacement, BIPOC communities have historically carved out spaces of support through cultural hubs, community gardens, faith-based entities and activities, community care systems, social clubs, barber and beauty shops, community centers, and more. These culturally responsive spaces allow BIPOC individuals to feel connected with their communities, maintain physical and psychological safety, and gather together for times of joy and celebration. Cultural hubs often include restaurants that serve foods that may remind individuals of traditional family meals and practices, play music that helps individuals connect to past traditions, and offer opportunities to speak in a shared language.