Attendees during the program discussion engaged in critical thinking and reflection on the barriers to wellness that exist at individual, institutional, and structural levels. This included considering the impact of systemic issues such as white supremacy, capitalism, generational trauma, and other societal factors.
The importance of focusing on rest and well-being as a means to address individual struggles was emphasized, while recognizing that societal factors and structures play a significant role in shaping these challenges. This is particularly true for marginalized groups such as queer, trans, Black, and indigenous women and people of color.
During the discussion, attendees examined the concept of wellness through a social justice lens, which was new for many participants. They collaborated to brainstorm alternative ways of approaching self-care, recognizing that the commodification of this concept often leads to equating self-care with consumerism.
Speaker Narvaez encouraged attendees to adopt a collectivist approach to self-care and rest by drawing on a quote from bell hooks that emphasizes the value of building communities of resistance. This collective effort allows individuals to support each other and find strength in solidarity, reinforcing the idea that no one is alone in their struggles.
