Breaking the Cycle of Fear, Bias, and Dehumanization
What happens when we label someone as “the other”? Often it is a subconscious mindset. Have you ever found yourself prejudging an individual or group without truly understanding their story? This isn’t uncommon. At some point, we’ve all done it. These judgments often stem from unconscious biases or learned behaviors. The problem arises when we let these biases shape how we perceive and treat others, especially when it leads to dehumanization.
When we distance ourselves from people because we see them as “different,” we create dangerous divisions. This fear of the unknown—of what we don’t understand—often drives prejudice. History is filled with examples of how this mindset can spiral into widespread discrimination and, ultimately, harm. Be curious.
Today, in the U.S., we are witnessing this unfold in real time.
Marginalized groups—women, minorities, the LGBTQ2S+ community—are being systematically targeted through policies that strip away their rights, fuel public fear, and encourage judgment rather than understanding. When people in power promote fear, those who are already vulnerable pay the heaviest price.
When we view others through a lens of judgment, we become less curious, less compassionate, and far less inclusive. We lose our ability to listen and to connect with each other’s humanity. Ask yourself: What side of the conversation do I want to be on?
Do you want to be part of the problem, perpetuating fear and division? Or do you want to be part of the solution—approaching others with compassion and curiosity, and standing up for those who are dehumanized?
The Danger of Dehumanization
Throughout history, those labeled as “the other” have been stripped of their dignity and systematically excluded, oppressed, and harmed. When society views individuals as less human because of who they love, how they look, or how they live, it opens the door to physical, emotional, and social destruction.
The most dangerous thing we can do is remain silent in the face of this injustice. We need to stand up and speak out. Start with those closest to you—family, friends, coworkers. If you see something unjust happening in public, say something. Defend those who are being dehumanized and challenge the rhetoric that perpetuates fear and hatred.
My Personal Experience as “The Other”
I know what it feels like to be labeled “the other.” I experienced it for 20 years while working in the RCMP. I didn’t fit into the toxic workplace culture of bullying, misogyny, racism, and homophobia. By standing up and challenging the system and my coworkers, I became a target.
I was bullied relentlessly for refusing to participate in that culture, for being different, for daring to speak up. It wasn’t easy. There were days when I wondered if it was worth it. But even through those difficult times, I knew this:
I’d rather be “the other” than conform to a toxic, destructive environment.
Standing up for what’s right may make you a target, but it also makes you part of the conversation for change. Silence only perpetuates the harm.
Self-Reflection: Breaking the Cycle of Bias
If you ever feel intense emotions toward a group or individual, take a moment to pause and reflect:
- Where is this feeling coming from?
- Is it rooted in personal experience, or is it an unconscious bias?
- Have I been influenced by others who seem convincing in their judgment?
Curiosity and self-awareness are powerful tools. They help us identify our biases and challenge the narratives that encourage fear and division. Self care tools will help us understand how to recharge our emotional fuel cells to cope with these negative experiences.
Hope and Empowerment Amid Chaos
In recent weeks, many of us have felt overwhelmed and disoriented by the toxic political climate and executive actions that promote division and hate. It’s beyond heartbreaking to watch leadership encourage cruelty and intolerance, giving people permission to act on their worst impulses—whether it’s homophobia, misogyny, or racism. Speaking from experience I was feeling discombobulated! Confused, angry, and feeling helpless watching our American friends being attacked. It’s important that we reach into our self-care tool kit and find ways to take care of our anxiety and stress. It can be overwhelming and we can become lost in our frustration and fear. Take time to nurture yourself with your own tools and strategies that make you feel happy, find inner peace and enjoy life again.
Women and girls, minorities, and LGBTQ2S+ communities will suffer the consequences of these actions. But we have a choice: We can either stand by or become part of the solution.
Be Part of the Conversation for Change
It’s time to ask ourselves what kind of world we want to live in. We must create spaces where compassion, inclusion, and respect prevail. This begins with speaking up, educating ourselves and others, and challenging the fear-based narratives that seek to divide us.
If you are Canadian, send letters to your MP and MLA representative supporting Canada. Purchase power is amazing. Overwhelmed?? I REPEAT — If needed set time limits on how much news you watch and what you listen to. It is okay to step back and focus on how to be happy amongst the craziness of Trump. Remember your self-care tools for good mental health. If you are American we understand how a bully’s leadership and ‘yes-men’ surrounding him can cause incredible damage to your country and democracy, women’s rights, LGBTQ2s community and upset the global community with bullying tactics. Very sad. Use your self-care tools to maintain good mental health.
Remember self-care tools for good mental health. Focus on what you can control and influence with letters/emails/phone calls to your government representatives
Change starts with each of us—one conversation, one act of kindness, and one courageous stand at a time. Let’s choose compassion. Let’s choose humanity.
Never allow anyone to negatively influence your life and perspective. Be curious and learn. It is never too late.