The Role of the Cummings Center for the History of Psychology in the APA's Apology to People of Color
In service of apologies, not apologists.
Your final letter will be ADDRESSED TO ME AS YOUR PROFESSOR of this history of psychology course. It is a bit different. Specifically, after reading the APA’s Psychology and the Belief in Racial Hierarchy: A Chronology (2021b; compiled by the Cummings Center for the History of Psychology, at the behest of the APA) and Apology to People of Color (APA, 2021a) … (in THIS order), you will:
Reflect upon the role the CCHP played in the APA’s formal apology to people of color. Let your thoughts go free, and do not feel compelled to focus on just the positive or negative.
Consolidate your reflections by finding and submitting an image that best captures/symbolizes/reflects these thoughts (or at least their most significant aspects, according to you!). This image may or may not be historically based. It does NOT have to come the sources listed on the Course Resource page.
In a letter addressed to me, submit the image along with one paragraph describing what, why, and how this image illustrates your thoughts on the role these historians played in the creation and presentation of this public apology.
In a concluding paragraph, explore whether and how these histories of psychology/Psychology (content and/or process) feel alive/present in YOUR experience of Psychology. Finally, provide a brief reflection on the degree to which your experiences and thoughts align with one or two (or none) of the functions of history highlighted by the syllabus quotes that started off the quarter: handmaid OR science of remedies.
Include reference page for all sources used (including image).
The Role of the Cummings Center for the History of Psychology in the APA's Apology to People of Color
In the journey towards reconciliation and acknowledgment of past wrongs, the role of historical documentation and reflection cannot be understated. The Cummings Center for the History of Psychology (CCHP) played a crucial role in the American Psychological Association's (APA) formal apology to people of color by providing a comprehensive chronology of psychology's belief in racial hierarchy. Through their meticulous curation of historical evidence, the CCHP shed light on the systemic biases and discriminatory practices that have permeated the field of psychology. This act of historical excavation was instrumental in prompting the APA to confront its past transgressions and issue a public apology to people of color. The CCHP's dedication to uncovering uncomfortable truths and presenting them unflinchingly paved the way for a more honest and reflective dialogue within the field of psychology.
In considering the impact of the CCHP's work on the APA's apology, the image that comes to mind is that of a mirror reflecting the stark realities of history. This image symbolizes the role of historical introspection in confronting uncomfortable truths and acknowledging the deep-seated biases that have shaped the field of psychology. Just as a mirror forces us to confront our own reflections, the work of the CCHP compelled the APA to confront its past failings and strive towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
In my personal experience of psychology, these histories of discrimination and bias feel undeniably present. As a student in the field, I am acutely aware of the legacy of racial hierarchy and discrimination that continues to influence psychological theory and practice. The revelations brought to light by the CCHP serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of critically examining our assumptions and biases in order to create a more just and equitable discipline. In reflecting on the functions of history highlighted in the course syllabus, I find that my experiences align more closely with the concept of history as a science of remedies. By acknowledging and learning from the mistakes of the past, we can actively work towards addressing systemic injustices and fostering a more inclusive and socially responsible practice of psychology.
Reference Page:
American Psychological Association. (2021a). Apology to People of Color. https://www.apa.org/apology
American Psychological Association. (2021b). Psychology and the Belief in Racial Hierarchy: A Chronology. Cummings Center for the History of Psychology.