Othering is a concept that refers to the process of creating a division between “us” and “others”, in which one social group perceives another group as different, inferior or strange. This process leads us to dehumanize “others”, treat them with suspicion or even justify their exclusion or oppression. Otherness is key, therefore, to understanding many forms of discrimination, oppression and social conflict, as it creates and reinforces hierarchies of power.
In view of this, the American academic John A. Powell proposes the creation of societies based on belonging with the aim that everyone is recognized and has a place. Unlike othering, belonging is based on the creation of inclusive societies where everyone feels included, recognized and respected, regardless of their social, cultural, economic differences or whatever their nationality, origins or roots.
In a global context where polarization, racism and tensions between social groups have a great presence, we will deal with this duality between otherness and belonging with john a powell at an event next Wednesday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m., at the Barcelona Social Hub (c/ Girona, 34).
An expert in social justice and anti-racism, Powell is director of the Othering & Belonging Institute at the University of Berkeley. His work influences movements such as Black Lives Matter, providing a framework for understanding inequalities. Powell talks extensively about how otherness contributes to the creation of enemies and the dehumanization of social groups. Their analysis helps to understand the rise of hate speech and xenophobia, especially in times of social and economic crisis.
Conversation with entities in Barcelona
After the initial intervention of John A. Powell, representatives of entities from Barcelona will hold a conversation. Experiences, knowledge and strategies to strengthen anti-racism in the city and elsewhere will be shared. The event is part of the previous activities organized on the occasion of the celebration of the UNESCO Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination in Barcelona, on December 10 and 11.
The session is organized by ICIP, Novact, the School of Culture of Peace and the Barcelona City Council, with the support of the Barcelona Provincial Council.
The event will be in English with simultaneous translation service.
