What Is Multigenerational Trauma?

Multigenerational Trauma

Die Willie Die is a documentary about a husband and father who recognizes the multigenerational trauma affecting his life and seeks to kill it at the root to empower his children and the generations to come. But what exactly is multigenerational trauma and how does it affect us? Before the film exclusively screens on February 5th, 2022, this guide will answer the question what is multigenerational trauma so you know why it’s so important to break its hold. 

Definition

Multigenerational trauma comes in many forms and many names. Sometimes called “intergenerational trauma,” or even “generational curses”, this term refers to passing down traumatic experiences to younger generations. For African Americans, this is evident in systemic oppression since slavery and the Jim Crow era. 

Examples

One of the clearest examples of systemic oppression resulting in multigenerational trauma can be seen in several crucial statistics. There are forty-two million Black Americans, which represent 13% of the U.S. population. However, 27% of African Americans live in poverty and only own 1.5% of all wealth in the United States. Because of this, poverty is one of the most frequent causes of trauma.

Effects Of Multigenerational Trauma

Multigenerational trauma causes widespread cultural PTSD. The effects of this can be seen in how we handle trauma and whether we heal from it or pass it down. Two unhealthy coping mechanisms we often see are denial and minimizing the trauma. Unfortunately, neither of these coping mechanisms allow for healing to occur. When we teach younger generations to downplay trauma and hurt, we teach them unhealthy ways to handle their emotions. Not only does this hurt ourselves, but it hurts the way we interact with others as well. Essentially, the path to healing requires honesty, acknowledgement, and guidance. If healing is going to occur, trauma has to be confronted. 

The #1 Must-Watch Movie for Healing the Black Family from Multigenerational Trauma

The goal of the ground-breaking documentary Die Willie Die is to help identify the trauma that is limiting us and provide solutions for healing. Featuring interviews from mental health experts, artists, activists, and icons, Die Willie Die is a must-watch for those looking to end multigenerational trauma. Reserve your ticket for the exclusive screening!