This theory explains the adaptive survival behaviours of African American communities across America but can also be used to understand Black oppressed groups globally. An emerging contribution to this field is the theory of Post-traumatic slave syndrome coined by Dr Joy DeGruy. In furthering our understanding, we can ensure that these wounds are healed in our community. Psychologists, sociologist and historical analysts have done much work into different types of trauma Black people experience. Likewise, Bhui et al., (2018) those who experience racism are more likely to experience mental health issues such as psychosis and depression. Williams (2018)’s research found that experiencing racism can be very stressful and have a negative effect on our physical and mental health. Even now in 2020 we still experience racism and discrimination, and while it may not be as overt as it has been previously, it is still devastating for our mental health. The narrative that is often portrayed and taught in UK schools focuses exclusively and extensively on the American slave trade however, as Black British people it is important to note that while our struggles are similar they are not identical. Enslaved Africans in America and British owned islands, such as St Kitts and Nevis and Jamaica to name a few, were tortured and dehumanised. During this time, Black people were bought and sold like commodities. The American Chattel Slavery lasted from 1619 till 1865.
In 2001 The United Nations declared via the Durban Deceleration that the Transatlantic Slave Trade was a crime against humanity and was the source of the ongoing racism and discrimination faced by People of African descent today. A few of these penalties can be seen when we look at how Black men are stereotyped and the double marginalisation of being both Black and female. This trauma has become an intergenerational part of the Black experience, as Black people continue to live under a system of white supremacy that penalises those furthest away from whiteness. It has been a key feature of many African Diasporic communities, spanning several decades. Black trauma is defined as psychological, physical and emotional injury from experiencing actual or perceived racism, including overt and covert racism (Carter, 2007).
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