Stepping Out of Otherness

Women of Colour Finding Their Inner Goddess

Rita Symons

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Paperback

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English

Routledge
03 February 2025

Gender studies, gender groups; Ethnic studies; Social & cultural anthropology; Personnel & human resources management; Sales & marketing

What might the impact be on a grown woman of having a nursery school teacher change and anglicise her name at the age of three? That three-year-old was me. In our world, we face more and more polarisation and so it feels imperative that we understand the concept and lived experience of “Othering”. Othering takes away individuality and reduces whole groups to “they”.

This book explores the theory, examining why Othering is so much part of human biology and conditioning. Through a narrative approach, the experiences of women of colour growing up in 1970s and 1980s Britain are explored, sharing individual stories and common themes. Ultimately this book is a celebration of their deep commitment to self-work and development and their success in navigating the additional burden of being different.

We hear from other thinkers and activists, and offer active hope and potential ways forward in how we might create more inclusive, sustainable societies. This is a monumental task but arguably we have no choice, and so the work of changing how we choose to live feels like the most important work we can do together.

By: Rita Symons
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
Weight: 270g
ISBN: 9781032487502
ISBN 10: 103248750X
Pages: 132
Publication Date: 03 February 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Preface Introduction Part I: The Science 1. Why are we so good at ‘Othering’? 2. Reality as a Social Construct 3. Our Need to Belong 4. Impact at an organisational and societal level 5. The relationship between ‘othering’ and power 6. ‘Othering’ as a socio-political tool 7. The impact of ‘othering’ Part II: The Reality 8. We are all wonderfully unique 9. Awareness of difference 10. The impact of micro-aggressions 11. The trauma experienced by our parents 12. The legacy of shame 13. Finding our place 14. Identity as a woman of colour 15. The importance of shade 16. Celebrating our difference Part III: Envisaging a Hopeful Future 17. Thinking differently 18. The importance of thought diversity 19. Letting in the ‘sacred gifts’ 20. A synthesis of evidence in terms of how to tackle ‘othering’ 21. Conclusion

Rita Symons is a second-generation British Asian woman. She spent much of her early working life in the NHS, eventually becoming a CEO. She is currently a coach, coach supervisor and facilitator and is the ex-President of a large, professional body for coaching (EMCC UK). She is involved in various groups considering the role of coaching in systemic change and social justice, and considers herself a world citizen.

Reviews for Stepping Out of Otherness: Women of Colour Finding Their Inner Goddess

""This book, Stepping Out of Otherness, is a powerful and intimate contribution to the understanding of the impact of ""Othering"", and the essential move to remember our interconnectedness. There is truly a different way of being in the world. Author Rita encourages more people to be curious and active in moving to a future where we live in connection with all life."" Dr. Anita Sanchez, author of international award winning book, The Four Sacred Gifts: Indigenous Wisdom for Modern Times, Simon & Schuster ""Rita’s book, 'Stepping Out of Otherness,' speaks directly to many of my experiences as a woman of colour . Her courage leaning into the topic and encouraging others to share personal stories and insightful analysis is inspiring. Thank you Rita for amplifying our voices and paving the way for a more inclusive future. Here’s to the goddesses!"" Remi Baker, CEO, Wondrous People ""This is an important and courageous book from Rita Symons. At its heart, it asks, ‘can humans be We not I', and seeks to answer the issues of systemic inequality in a rounded and profound way. Rita details not only her own qualitative work, but also involves further thinkers and activists, giving the book a broad perspective. Ultimately, this is a book about hope, and the possibilities for inspiration through the next generation, IF we heed the lessons of past and present."" Dr Lucy Ryan, CEO Mindspring; Author, ‘Revolting Women'