How do I process my own guilt/emotions in this space?
Realizing how deeply damaging systemic social hierarchies are for ourselves, our communities, other beings, and our planet will inevitably cause uncomfortable and difficult emotions to surface. Moreover, it can be hard to realize and accept your position in contributing to colonization, colonial systems and violence, and the impacts on Indigenous communities. You may yourself belong to another marginalized community or you may feel that your values, beliefs, or actions are not inherently oppressive or directly harmful. Although you may have your own experiences with systemic oppression or you may not have explicitly discriminatory or racist views, as a settler you still benefit from the exploitation of Indigenous Peoples and lands.
No one chooses the position, situation, or body they are born into. However, this does not diminish the fact that we all experience different levels of privilege by living in a society that is systematically oppressive and hierarchical. For many, facing the impacts of systemic oppression is a daily and lifelong experience that they cannot choose to escape or opt-out of. Others have the privilege of being able to choose when, or even if, they have the space to address systemic violence and oppression.
While feelings of guilt may surface as you recognize and learn to accept your position in contributing to the oppression of Indigenous Peoples, it is not the responsibility of Indigenous Peoples or others to alleviate this guilt. Your comfort cannot take precedence over having much-needed conversations that address the impacts of systemic racism and colonization on the lives of Indigenous Peoples, as well as the need to create safer spaces for Indigenous Peoples. Most importantly, having to face uncomfortable feelings is not an excuse for inaction. Guilt is not an excuse for inaction. Being overwhelmed is not an excuse for inaction. Difficulty is not an excuse for inaction. People whose lives are affected by systemic oppression every day do not have the luxury of inaction. If anything, guilt and feelings of discomfort should be used as a way of energizing future work and not a deterrent from engaging and committing to this work.
