Individual presentation:
• Asaleeka “Asha” Whyte-Reyes:
Inherited Wounds, Silenced Voices: Understanding and Disrupting Cycles of Violence Across Generations
(60 min)

Abstract:

This presentation explores how historical trauma, systemic oppression, and social identities shape mental wellness across generations in historically marginalized communities, with a focus on how collective trauma and systemic inequities contribute to the normalization and perpetuation of violence, silence, and exploitation.

Grounded in Intersectionality Theory and drawing on Critical Race Theory, Black Feminist Thought, Intergenerational Trauma Theory, and Ecological Systems Theory, the presentation highlights how histories of migration, displacement, and colonization influence identity formation, intergenerational coping, and perceptions of safety and belonging within marginalized communities. It also explores contemporary forms of social violence — such as human trafficking, scapegoating of marginalized groups, institutional silencing, digital harassment, and groupthink — that reinforce cycles of harm and normalize exploitation in these marginalized communities.

By connecting psychohistorical perspectives, such as the concept of transgenerational transmission of trauma and the role of collective memory in shaping cultural responses to violence, with current social dynamics, the presentation emphasizes how trauma is transmitted not only individually but through cultural narratives, institutional practices, and generational expectations. Participants will learn practical strategies for recognizing intergenerational trauma patterns, supporting culturally responsive healing, and fostering intergenerational dialogue that promotes resilience and collective well-being.

Keywords: collective memory, culturally responsive healing, historical trauma, intersectionality, marginalized communities, psychohistory, systemic oppression, transgenerational trauma

Short Bio:

Asaleeka “Asha” Whyte-Reyes, LMSW, SIFI, is currently a DSW candidate in the NYU Class of 2027. She earned her MSW degree from the NYU Silver School of Social Work and a BS degree in Criminal Justice, Institutional Theory and Practice from John Jay College. Her work in social work is driven by a desire to bridge gaps in mental health services, particularly within underserved communities. As a woman of color, she has witnessed the disparities and challenges faced by individuals navigating complex social divisions and identities, including the impacts of generational divides, migration, and systemic marginalization. This inspired her Capstone research, which explores the intersectional impact of racialized sexual harassment on Black women, the Superwoman schema (SWS), and the psychological consequences of underrecognized trauma. Asha’s clinical and research interests also address modern social perversions—including human trafficking, scapegoating, groupthink, and censorship — and their effects on marginalized populations. She has worked in schools for nearly 11 years as a School Social Worker and taught Social-Emotional Learning, focusing on supporting ethnic minority youth. Her dedication to culturally responsive, trauma-informed, collective healing, and justice-oriented practices informs her work to advance mental wellness and equity for marginalized communities. She can be reached by email at .