The identity of people of colour: deflecting the racialised lens

Abstract

A persistent problem that exists when considering minority groups – here conceived of as ethnic minorities – is the over-emphasis of an aspect of identity to represent the whole. In the west people of colour are seen through the lens of their colour and apparent racial difference. This is potentially limiting not only to their autonomy or right to shape their identity in their own terms but also within the therapeutic encounter. This article examines how misrepresentation of this kind occurs and what can be done to encourage a more empowering account of identity that advocates for the individual’s right to shape their identity and for the possibilities of a fuller perspective of identity that goes beyond racialised difference.