Skip to content
 thumbnail
EPISODE 4 | Nov, 03, 2025

"The Shame" of the Undocumented: Identity, Healing, and Hope w/ Dr. Norma Ramirez

0:00 0:00

Summary

Host Rev. Sex engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Norma Ramirez, discussing the intersections of undocumented status, shame, gender, and spirituality within the context of their personal and professional life. The dialogue navigates the parallels between political and religious shame, the influence of harmful theological narratives, and the significance of reclaiming one's inherent worth. Emphasizing collective healing and spirituality, they also explore the unknown aspects of a relationship with God and the importance of ancestral wisdom and interconnectedness in the journey toward justice and healing.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:35 Understanding 'Sinvergüenza'

01:51 Personal Experiences of Shame and Guilt

03:27 Parallels Between Political and Religious Shame

06:19 Theological Education and Personal Reflections

10:20 Navigating Emotions and Trauma

15:55 Maintaining Humanity in Challenging Times

24:39 Facing Terror and Uncertainty

28:54 Exploring the Origins of Messages and Belonging

30:01 Checking In With Yourself and Questioning Messages

32:15 Navigating Shame, Gender, and Sexuality

40:43 The Journey Through Seminary and Faith

42:42 The Mystery of God and Personal Struggles

43:54 Fighting for DACA and Personal Resilience

50:26 Words of Wisdom and Ancestral Connections

53:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Meet The Guest

Dr. Norma Ramirez

Dr. Norma Ramirez (She/ Her/ Ella) is a California and Nevada licensed psychologist dedicated to serving diverse populations, including undocumented immigrants, first-generation professionals, neurodivergent individuals, and the LGBTQ community. A passionate immigrant advocate, Dr. Ramirez was a plaintiff against DACA's 2017 rescission and has been recognized by the Biden and Harris Administration as a Latinx leader. Her professional approach is deeply influenced by her own marginalized identities, spirituality, activism, and varied professional roles.


Discover more shows & releases

SWAJ Podcast Cover Art

Straight White American Jesus

The flagship show examining Christian nationalism and democracy.

Listen Now
Headshot of Andrew Seidel with constitution writing and text - One Nation Indivisible

One Nation Indivisible

Constitutional law meets church-state separation.

Listen Now

New Releases


Explore More Shows