CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2024
| Author | Ivanenko, Artur |
|---|---|
| Title | Resilience in Indigenous and Romani Communities: The Psychosocial Impact of Ancestral Land Connections amidst Colonial and Environmental Challenges |
| Summary | This thesis examines the profound impact of Indigenous peoples’ and Romani communities’ connections to their ancestral lands on their mental health resilience, particularly amidst ongoing colonial impacts and environmental changes. Through the thematic analysis of research papers, this theoretical study employs frameworks from noted scholars, emphasizing the dismantling of Eurocentric biases. The research advocates for a decolonized, culturally informed approach that respects and integrates Indigenous and Romani knowledge systems, highlighting how deep-rooted connections to the land enhance resilience. These ties support cultural identity and continuity, and offer significant psychological benefits, aiding in recovery from colonial trauma and promoting overall well-being. This study contributes new insights into the crucial role of land in sustaining mental health and resilience among Indigenous and Romani communities, calling for a holistic approach that recognizes the intertwined nature of cultural practices, environmental stewardship, and mental health. As a Roma from Ukraine, my displacement due to the Russian invasion has deeply informed my understanding of the loss of ancestral land and its psychological impacts. This experience mirrors the Indigenous struggle against colonialism, as both Romani and Indigenous peoples face systemic marginalization and dispossession. By comparing these experiences, I highlight how land ties reinforce identity and resilience amidst adversity for both groups. This comparative perspective enriches the analysis by emphasizing common cultural continuity and community bond themes. |
| Supervisor | Nicutar Andreea |
| Department | Romani Studies Ps |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2024/ivanenko_artur.pdf |
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