How One Special Virgo became the hero against Racial Trauma
I'm a Virgo is a surreal, comedic, adventure following Cootie, a 13 foot 19-year-old Black teenager who was raised in captivity by his aunt and uncle.
It sounds bizarre because it is. We are never told why Cootie is the way he is, just that he was born this way, his mother was this way, and his identity must be protected at all costs so he doesn’t end up dead like all those before him. It's trippy, and there are points where you will find yourself saying "What in the theater piece is going on here?”
With all the supernatural elements aside, this is a coming-of-age story of a young boy trying to understand his place in the world, only to find himself confused by, not only the intricacies of teenage love and friendship but how quickly he is seen as a threat to the community of Oakland at large.
What really got me interested in the show was what Cootie seems to represent. The large presence that gets hidden away but can no longer be ignored once it’s acknowledged and out in the open: Racism. Once the community sees footage of Cootie walking the streets, he’s portrayed as a threat; a dangerous, unpredictable presence that needs to be tamed. This makes me think of how Black people have often been portrayed on television for decades and the traumatic impact it can have on your mental health.
The Power of Stereotypes
Stereotypes are simplified, often unfair, and sometimes harmful beliefs about a particular group of people. Negative racial stereotypes about Black individuals have deep historical roots in our society, dating back to slavery and beyond. These stereotypes often portray Black people as inferior, dangerous, lazy, or criminal. When these stereotypes persist, they can become deeply ingrained in the minds of individuals; shaping their thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes.
The Consequences of Stereotypes
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Negative racial stereotypes can have a profound emotional and psychological impact on Black individuals. Constant exposure to these stereotypes can lead to feelings of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and even self-hatred. Imagine being constantly bombarded with overt and covert messages that tell you that you are less intelligent, less capable, or inherently criminal because of how you look.
Microaggressions and Everyday Discrimination
Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional acts or comments that perpetuate stereotypes and biases. Black people regularly face microaggressions in their daily lives, from being followed in stores to being questioned about their qualifications in professional settings. These seemingly small actions accumulate over time, contributing to the racial trauma experienced by Black individuals.
Fear and Anxiety
Negative stereotypes about Black people can also lead to fear and anxiety, both on an individual and a collective level. The fear of being stereotyped as dangerous or criminal can result in hyper-vigilance and stress. It's like constantly looking over your shoulder, expecting to be judged or mistreated because of your race.
Impact on Opportunities
Stereotypes can affect opportunities in education, employment, and housing. For example, teachers might have lower expectations for Black students, leading to disparities in educational outcomes. Employers might be less likely to hire or promote Black individuals, limiting their career prospects. These disparities further exacerbate the cycle of racial trauma.
Physical Health
The stress and anxiety caused by negative racial stereotypes can also have serious physical health consequences. Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues. This physical toll adds another layer to the racial trauma experienced by Black individuals.
Breaking the Cycle
Recognizing the harm caused by negative racial stereotypes is the first step toward breaking the cycle of racial trauma. We must actively challenge these stereotypes when we encounter them, whether it's in media, conversations, or our own thoughts. This is why shows like I’m a Virgo are brilliant! You watch Cootie take matters into his own hands and reclaim his own identity.
If you feel like you’re someone who may be affected by racial trauma, speaking to a therapist about your experience can be a great first step. Approaches like Cognitive Processing Therapy can help you figure out how to navigate the world better and find the ways you can conquer the symptoms that keep you feeling stuck.
You can stream I’m a Virgo on Amazon Prime
Begin Working with A Trauma Therapist in New York, NY
Overcoming the effects of racial trauma is easier said than done. As a trauma therapist, I would be happy to offer a supportive place from my New York, NY-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Contact me to schedule a 15-minute phone call to see if we could be a good fit
Meet with me, a skilled trauma therapist for your first session
Start addressing racial trauma!
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED AT RESTORITY SPACE
At Restority Space, I offer more than trauma therapy. I’m happy to offer the care women may need when it comes to their mental health online in both New York and New Jersey. This is why I offer Individual Therapy to help women cope with their anxiety, depression, unhealthy relationships, and any major life transitions. I also provide services for those struggling with a breakup. I’m also happy to provide Group Therapy to help women find a sense of belonging and for more support. My group services include a Therapy Group For New Mothers and a Therapy Group For Black Women. To learn more check out my blog and other resources!