Unveiling Invisibility-Hypervisibility: The Struggle of Marginalized Identities
JFM is elevating and centering Arthur Chan’s most recent educational illustration shared on LinkedIn, “Here is a glimpse of the experience of marginalized folks in the workplace as it relates to invisibility-hypervisibility.”
The concept of invisibility-hypervisibility is a critical framework used to analyze the experiences of individuals with marginalized identities in various social contexts, including educational, organizational, and political settings. This concept explores how people from marginalized groups can be simultaneously rendered invisible and hyper-visible, leading to unequal treatment and discrimination.
Invisibility refers to the phenomenon where individuals with marginalized identities are often overlooked, disregarded, or not given the same level of attention and recognition as their dominant group counterparts. This can manifest in educational settings when their contributions, perspectives, and achievements are dismissed or downplayed. In organizational contexts, it might lead to underrepresentation in leadership roles or being left out of decision-making processes. Politically, it can result in the marginalization of certain communities, leading to limited representation and attention to their issues.
On the other hand, hypervisibility refers to the heightened attention and scrutiny that individuals from marginalized groups often face. This can be a double-edged sword, as while increased visibility may provide opportunities for representation and acknowledgment of unique experiences, it can also subject them to stereotyping, tokenization, and discrimination. In educational environments, hypervisibility can lead to being labeled as representatives of their entire group rather than being seen as individuals with unique strengths and weaknesses. In organizations, it can result in being perceived as "diversity hires" rather than individuals with valuable skills and qualifications. In the political arena, hypervisibility might lead to public scrutiny and biased judgments.
Dr. Medlock's experiences in their educational and organizational roles were significantly impacted by the invisibility-hypervisibility duality. Despite being highly accomplished and qualified, Dr. Medlock faced systemic invisibility, where her contributions, leadership, and expertise were overlooked or undervalued in comparison to her non-marginalized peers.
Conversely, as one of the few individuals from her marginalized identity in a position of influence, Dr. Medlock also experienced hypervisibility. She was expected to represent and speak for their entire community, facing additional pressure and scrutiny due to her identity.
In this situation, Dr. Medlock's unjust removal was influenced by the complex interplay of invisibility-hypervisibility. Decision-makers and peers in positions of power were unwilling to address underlying systemic biases and perpetuated the invisibility by not valuing Dr. Medlock's contributions appropriately. At the same time, the hypervisibility made her more susceptible to unfair criticism, leading to her dismissal based on unjust or discriminatory reasons rather than her actual performance or qualifications.
In summary, the concept of invisibility-hypervisibility sheds light on the nuanced and often contradictory ways that individuals with marginalized identities experience different social contexts. It highlights the need for inclusive and equitable practices in education, organizations, and politics to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly and with dignity, regardless of their background.
Take Action
JFM is united as a collective force demanding justice and reinstatement, emphasizing the vital role Dr. Medlock played in fostering equity and inclusivity in behavioral health care. The testimonials from those who have witnessed her leadership further reinforce the urgent need for justice. The fight continues, urging Governor Polis to rectify the unjust political decision.
The power of this movement is sourced from the JFM network. JFM is a volunteer collective and in response to the increase in tips and stories supporting the fight for justice, the collective created a new information-sharing tool! Share information with JFM using this form.
Have you been confronted about your racist, harmful, and oppressive behaviors? JFM encourages you to explore the concept of "processing right to comfort" to better understand its significance. In our efforts to dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusivity, uncomfortable conversations and confrontations are bound to occur. It's essential to remember that JFM’s intention is not to be adversarial but to promote growth and awareness. If you find JFM’s words hitting close to home, take the opportunity to introspect and understand the reasons behind your reactions.
Sign the Petition to Reinstate Dr. Medlock: Demand justice for Dr. Medlock signed the petition for Governor Polis to bring her back as the Commissioner of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).
Tell a story: If you have benefited from Dr. Medlock and her leadership, show up and uplift a true people-first leader dedicated to community and transformational reform.
Sign the Petition to Reinstate Dr. Medlock
On Monday, April 17, 2023, Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) Commissioner, Morgan Medlock, MD, MDiv, MPH, a Black community leader, was unjustly removed from her Colorado cabinet position without cause. Her removal risks the lives of millions of people in Colorado who deserve accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally-responsive behavioral health care. It also perpetuates the message that strong, qualified Women of Color are vulnerable to the whims of political systems and cabinet leadership.
Demand justice for Dr. Medlock by signing the petition for Governor Polis to bring her back as the Commissioner of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).