Focusing on Black and African American spirituality and history when discussing wellness, caste systems, colorism, and racism is not about prioritizing one group's experiences over others or ignoring global issues. Instead, it is about acknowledging and addressing an intentional and historically significant aspect of caste systems in the United States and, by extension, highlighting broader issues related to socio-race trauma, and inequality of wellness worldwide. Here are some reasons why Black and African American spirituality and history are often emphasized in discussions about health and caste systems:

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• Historical Significance: Black and African Americans have a distinct and deeply rooted history of oppression and discrimination in the United States. Focusing and studying this history allows for a much deeper understanding of the roots of socio-race injustices and serves as a compelling case study for understanding the behaviors of caste systems both domestically and worldwide. It highlights, fundamentally, how deeply ingrained and pervasive oppressive systems have been and their long-lasting consequences.

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• Intersectionality: Focusing on Black and African American history is not only inclusive but also serves as a vital starting point to explore intersectionality. It allows us to address broader issues of caste systems that impact diverse communities. Understanding the effects of racism on Black and African Americans helps us grasp how these dynamics intersect with the experiences of other marginalized groups.

 

• Educational & Awareness Purposes: Education about Black and African American spirituality and history helps raise awareness about the generational propensities and persistence of caste systems and their consequences on the well-being of humanity's soul. It encourages dialogue and cultivates empathy, ultimately contributing to efforts to address colorism and racism more broadly. It allows ears to hear and eyes to see the world from different perspectives and recognize the real challenges that others face due to established systemic barriers.​​​

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• Policy & Reform: Black and African American communities have historically shouldered a disproportionate burden of colorism and caste systems, evident in areas such as criminal justice, employment, laws, housing, education, policies, and healthcare. By focusing on these disparities, we can advocate for specific policy changes and reforms aimed at addressing these systemic issues and promoting equity and justice for all individuals affected. This approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also cultivates a more inclusive society, acknowledging and rectifying past and present injustices while working towards a sustainable fairer future.

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• Christ Formation & Theological Anthropology: The lived experiences of Black and African Americans provide a profound lens for understanding Christ formation and theological anthropology. These experiences reveal God’s presence in suffering, the resilience of faith amidst systemic injustice, and the transformative power of hope and community. They invite us to see Christ's incarnational work as deeply connected to the realities of caste systems, racism, and imperialism, challenging the Church to embody liberation and reconciliation. Furthermore, they expand the narrative of the Christian faith, cultivating a more unified understanding of God's redemptive story for humanity, where all voices are heard, valued, and restored in the Creator God who loves us all.

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• Inspiration & Solidarity: Black and African American spirituality and history includes numerous inspiring narratives of reparative healing, rebuilding, resistance, and resilience. These stories can serve as powerful sources of inspiration for people of all backgrounds, motivating us to engage in the fight against caste systems, colorism, and racism.  Additionally, they cultivate solidarity among diverse communities in the quest for civil righteousness, justice, and a sense of unity in the Creator God who made us all.

 

Again, it's important to emphasize that focusing on Black and African American history is not meant to exclude or ignore the experiences of other marginalized groups. Rather, it is a necessary component to address and dismantle the deep work of caste systems, colorism, and racism in all its forms, both within the United States and beyond. An inclusive approach recognizes the interconnectedness of various behaviors and patterns of marginalization and seeks to cultivate a more just, restorative, and equitable world for all humanity's sake (The Book of Genesis & Exodus, Deut 6:4-12, 2 Samuel 21:1-14, Amos 5:24, Micah 6:8Lk 4:17-19, Lk 10:25-37, Rom 12:1-2, 2 Cor 3:17-18, 2 Cor 5:18-19, Is 61:1-3, Ps 139).