Practice care is about making sure that people have access to basic necessities for their survival, such as food, water, shelter, clothing, healthcare, education, etc. In this essay I will explain what it means to practice care when one's very existence has been denied care by dominant structures.
A dominant structure is an organization or system that controls large parts of society. It can be a political party, a corporation, or a government. When someone lives under a dominant structure, they may experience inequality and discrimination. They might not have access to equal opportunities and resources because they are marginalized based on factors like race, gender, class, ability, religion, age, or sexual orientation.
Many black Americans do not have the same access to healthcare as white Americans. This can lead to poor physical and mental health outcomes, which affect their overall wellbeing.
When someone experiences inequality, they often struggle to meet their basic needs. This can lead to feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression. They may feel powerless and hopeless. Practicing care in these situations involves taking action to improve their quality of life. Caregivers can help provide emotional support and practical assistance. They can advocate for change at all levels - from individual actions to policy changes at national level.
One way to practice care is through community organizing. Community organizers work with communities to identify issues and create solutions. They build relationships and empower people to take action. They also lobby decision-makers to make changes that benefit the community.
Community organizers could help homeless people find housing or work with low-income families to improve food security.
Another way to practice care is through activism. Activists use protests, petitions, and direct action to challenge systems that oppress people. They fight against discrimination and demand equal rights. Activists can also engage in education and awareness raising campaigns to raise public consciousness about social justice issues.
Individuals can practice care by donating money, time, or resources to organizations that serve disadvantaged populations. People can also volunteer to help those in need directly. These small acts can add up to big changes over time.
Practicing care means recognizing and addressing systemic injustices that prevent some people from accessing essential resources. It requires a commitment to improving quality of life for everyone, regardless of background. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable world for all.
What does it mean to practice care when one's very existence has been denied care by dominant structures?
Care is an act of compassion and empathy that involves attentiveness and concern for another's wellbeing. When someone is denied care from dominant structures, they may experience various negative consequences such as isolation, dehumanization, and marginalization. Practicing care in this context requires individuals to acknowledge these experiences and work towards creating a more equitable society where everyone can receive care.