Let's create case scenarios for individuals at each stage of the Six Stages Framework:
Check out the full description of the Framework below:
You have been asked to work with each of these individuals. How would you go about supporting the journey in terms of understanding and dealing with racism? (or indeed other forms of discrimination?)
Stage 1: Unaware with Silence and Denial
Character: Mike
Mike, a 25-year-old, grew up in a small town with limited racial diversity. Race-related discussions were rare, and Mike believed that issues of racial injustice were exaggerated. Whenever confronted with conversations about racism, he tended to stay silent or deny the existence of such problems, claiming that he treated everyone equally.
Stage 2: Dismissive and Avoidant
Character: Sarah
Sarah, a 30-year-old, worked in a corporate setting where diversity and inclusion were emphasized. While she was aware of race issues, Sarah often dismissed them as less important than other social inequalities. Uncomfortable with discussions about racism, she would shift conversations to more manageable topics, believing that racial injustice occurred elsewhere, not in her own country.
Stage 3: Becoming Aware of Issues of Race
Character: Alex
Alex, a 28-year-old, started becoming more aware of racial differences and injustices. Engaging in informal conversations with friends and colleagues, Alex acknowledged the existence of racism but felt overwhelmed and unsure about how to address these issues. Exposure to media coverage and current events sparked Alex's interest in learning more about racial injustice.
Stage 4: Open to Learning
Character: Emily
Emily, a 35-year-old, actively sought out resources to educate herself on racial issues. Open to meaningful conversations about race, Emily re-evaluated her biases and engaged in self-reflection. She willingly explored concepts of privilege, including "white privilege," and actively worked on addressing any unintended micro-aggressions or biases.
Stage 5: Ability to See the Bigger Picture
Character: Jamal
Jamal, a 40-year-old, reached a stage where he could see the broader context of racial injustice. Reflecting on his own privilege and positions of power, Jamal experienced a paradigm shift. He actively challenged racism in his personal and professional life, recognizing the need for systemic change and understanding the greater good in the fight against racism.
Stage 6: Leadership Qualities
Character: Olivia
Olivia, a 45-year-old, assumed leadership roles to promote racial equity and social justice. Engaging in community initiatives, Olivia collaborated with others to challenge systemic issues. Demonstrating genuine compassion and empathy, Olivia actively spoke up against racism, empowering others to do the same. She embraced her role as a leader in the ongoing fight for humanity and equality.
© Inclusion Psychologists Limited
Full description of the Six Stages Framework
https://www.sixstagesframework.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Full-description-of-the-Six-Stages.pdf
