Can a truly independent individualist ever belong to a group? Isn't that oxymoronic? Doesn't being part of a group disprove independence?

Yes an individualist can be a member of group. Independence is maintained so long as membership of the group is voluntary and can be terminated at any time. 

Cooperation for mutual benefit is a beautiful thing. It only becomes oppressive when the group starts to collectively think it owns the individual and acts coercively.

Individualists think the purpose of groups is to empower and serve individuals. Collectivists think the purpose of individuals is to empower and serve the group. This post was edited by Zeitgeist at February 28, 2018 7:08 PM MST