This information is based on an interview with Busi Dlamini, DEI practitioner and systemic work facilitator in 2024 in preparation for an international systemic work immersion located at the Castle of Good Hope.
Physical presence isn’t enough: Being in a space doesn’t automatically mean you’re engaging appropriately. Unlearning harmful patterns is important.
Intentionality: It’s crucial to unlearn certain patterns from socialization that may negatively impact others.
Sacred spaces: In African spiritual practices, these are sacred spaces that need to be approached with respect and reverence.
Approaching Sacred Spaces
Curiosity is okay but has limits: Curiosity should not be an interrogation or evaluation of another culture. It can be harmful when it feels extractive.
Respectful documentation: Always ask for permission before capturing any part of a ceremony or practice, especially photos of people.
Context matters: Sacred moments may be misrepresented if shared outside their original context. Be mindful of how African culture has been minimized in the past and is still minimized today.
Knowledge production: Prioritize consent when documenting or sharing cultural practices and ask how people want to be acknowledged.
Engaging with Curiosity
Curiosity should be reflective: Instead of focusing on what you don’t understand, first explore your own feelings of discomfort or resonance. Use your body to guide you and work through this.
Shift from extractive to relational: Instead of just asking questions, engage in a way that feels meaningful and co-creative, helping both parties make sense of the experience.
Body as a guide: Pay attention to what your body is experiencing – discomfort, resonance, etc. – before asking others for answers.
Cultural Sensitivity and Self-Regulation
Internal work first: Reflect on your own reactions before expecting others to explain them. It’s a deeper, relational approach to curiosity. Do you work and educate yourself rather than asking those of marginalised groups to teach you.
Creating connection: Approach the space with openness, balancing what you give and receive. Communion, not just community, is essential for meaningful connection.
Shared humanity and differences: Understand that while we all share a common humanity, the experience of that humanity has been different for different people, particularly in African contexts.
How to Manage Triggers in Challenging Moments
Nature as a resource: If you’re triggered or overwhelmed, find a peaceful spot in nature to ground yourself – lying on the ground, facing the sky, or being near a tree can help reset your energy.
Self-regulation: Focus on grounding techniques and, if needed, seek support from facilitators or others within the group.
Final Thoughts
Being present: Be mindful of how different cultures and histories shape the space you’re in, especially when participating in immersive experiences.
Healing power of the space: The opportunity to be present in spaces like the Castle of Good Hope or the KwaZulu Natal Zulu Roots Experience is a gift for healing and transformation.
This framework emphasizes respect, reflective curiosity, self-awareness, and the importance of acknowledging both shared and unique experiences when engaging in multicultural spaces.
(c) Tanja Meyburgh 2024
www.africanconstellations.co.za