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Abstract

Historical trauma (HT) has been described as the cumulative emotional and psychological wounding over the lifespan and across generations, emanating from massive [intentional] group trauma. Sparse scholarly research exists examining the mechanism, impacts, and interventions for historical trauma in specifically Black communities/communities of the African Diaspora. Even less work has been done to understand how to develop effective culturally-responsive trauma interventions. To fill this dearth in the literature, this qualitative study interviewed traditional African/Black healer-practitioners to develop a more in-depth understanding of specific African/Black understandings and addressing of historical trauma. Results of this study suggest that HT specifically experienced by persons of the African Diaspora is multifaceted and may directly challenge personal identity, communal identity, and physical, emotional, and spiritual health. HT healing was similarly multifaceted and suggested that in addition to societal shifts toward justice, healing of HT in Black communities should include a reclaiming of ancestral healing practices in order to restore the self-efficacy and community healing. This assertion suggests that it may be inappropriate and ineffective to approach health disparities from a solely physical or mental health mindset in Black communities.

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