Modern Culture

Equity, liberty and access in the psychedelic space…

When I think about the most traumatized people in our society, race is certainly a major factor, but class too is absolutely massive. So many people are stuck in real scarcity. Chronic scarcity in communities usually leads to chronic trauma, and of course that can be compounded with other forms of oppression. How can we reach those poor folks across the country that are living in constant trauma?

Psychedelics are not the answer, they are a part, they are a tool, and we know they are effective, but there are more fundamental layers. What people really want and need is community, they want connection. They want to be seen and heard. Plenty of studies out there show what is behind addiction is a lack of connection- people are not feeling seen and heard, they are lost and numbed and will do anything to feel something special, even if it’s an addictive drug or behavior. So I think a way forward is something I have dedicated my life to- how we can create spaces of connection where people can share their story, and learn and practice deep and empathetic listening and witnessing. We have seen a major decline in church congregation numbers. I think it’s so interesting that as we go forward in society, church is such a historically important community place, and it’s not necessarily that something needs to replace the church, but there’s something that people need there, where they are in community, can share what’s going on, not be judged, and feel safe.

Original Article (Psychedelic Times):
Equity, liberty and access in the psychedelic space: a conversation with Hanifa Nayo Washington
Artwork Fair Use: JorgenCarlberg

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