Analysis:

Colonialism and white supremacy have historically imposed rigid societal norms that often conflict with the lived experiences and values of marginalized communities. This imposition forces individuals to conform to contrived realities, leading to significant psychological distress.

Imposed Norms and Daily Pretenses:

Individuals are often compelled to accept and adhere to societal constructs that prioritize certain cultural standards over others. Examples include:

• Work Structures: The conventional 9-to-5 workday is widely accepted as the standard for productivity, yet it may not align with diverse cultural practices or individual preferences.
• Authority Dynamics: Societal hierarchies often grant authority based on systemic biases rather than merit, compelling individuals to submit to power structures that may not respect their autonomy.
• Aesthetic Standards: Beauty ideals frequently favor characteristics such as straight hair over natural textures, pressuring individuals to alter their appearance to gain acceptance.
• Environmental Preferences: Urbanization promotes concrete landscapes over natural environments, disregarding the cultural and personal significance of nature for many communities.
• Communication Styles: Professional settings often value indirect or verbose communication, which can be at odds with more direct or succinct cultural expressions.
• Economic Indicators: Wealth is commonly equated with intelligence and hard work, overlooking systemic barriers that hinder equal economic opportunities.

Psychological Impact:

Conforming to these imposed norms can lead to internalized oppression, where individuals subconsciously adopt the negative beliefs and stereotypes perpetuated by the dominant culture. This internal conflict often results in:

• Identity Suppression: Individuals may feel compelled to hide or alter aspects of their identity to fit societal expectations, leading to a diminished sense of self.
• Chronic Stress: The constant effort to conform can cause ongoing stress, contributing to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
• Cognitive Dissonance: Holding conflicting beliefs—valuing one’s cultural identity while feeling pressured to conform to opposing societal norms—creates psychological discomfort.
• Erosion of Self-Worth: Repeated invalidation of one’s cultural values and practices can lead to feelings of inferiority and low self-esteem.

Conclusion:

The coercion to conform to artificial societal constructs rooted in colonialism and white supremacy inflicts profound psychological harm. Recognizing and challenging these imposed norms is essential for fostering mental well-being and honoring the diverse identities within our society.