Discussing an issue related to oppression, privilege, or intersectionality due to struggles with using the terminology
Discuss a time when you may have had difficulty discussing an issue related to oppression, privilege, or intersectionality due to struggles with using the terminology. In this situation, what sort of uncertainty or struggle did you face? What was the outcome? What did you learn during this unit that can help you overcome the struggle with discussing the issue?
(USLO 2.1)
2
Please watch the following video that is comprised of several short clips demonstrating stereotypes, microaggressions, and instances of prejudice and discrimination: "Power of One" (Thomas, 2007).
After you’ve watched the short video, answer the following questions:
Have you or someone you have known ever experienced or witnessed similar instances of what happened in the clips?
How did it feel to witness someone else act against the instances of prejudice and discrimination?
Do you think you could combat these prejudices, microaggressions, and stereotypes as the people did in the clips? Would you feel comfortable doing this with a family member? A friend? What if you heard an older person make a stereotypical or prejudiced statement?
What advice would you give to someone who has experienced stereotyping, discrimination, and prejudice?
(USLO 2.3)
4
What does it mean to be an “American?” Is there an overriding definition of what it means to be an American? How would we encompass the multitude number of races, ethnicities, cultures, religions, and various more identities into one single national identity? Is that even possible? What is the danger behind pushing for a single “story?” Reflect on these questions critically in your answer
Sample Solution
I have had difficulty discussing issues related to oppression, privilege, and intersectionality due to struggles with using the terminology on a few occasions. One specific example that comes to mind is when I was having a conversation with a friend about the Black Lives Matter movement. We were discussing the systemic racism that Black people face in the United States, and I wanted to be as precise as possible in my language. However, I was hesitant to use certain terms, such as "microaggression" and "internalized oppression,Full Answer Section
My uncertainty stemmed from a lack of exposure to these terms and concepts. I had not learned about them in school or in my personal life, and I was worried that I would say something offensive or inaccurate. As a result, I avoided using these terms altogether, even though I wanted to participate in the conversation in a meaningful way. The outcome of this situation was that I felt frustrated and silenced. I wanted to be able to talk about these important issues with my friend, but I was afraid of making a mistake. I also felt like I was doing a disservice to the people who are directly affected by these issues by not using the correct language. What I learned during this unit is that it is important to use the correct terminology when discussing oppression, privilege, and intersectionality. This is because language is powerful, and it can be used to either perpetuate or challenge oppression. When we use the correct terminology, we are showing that we respect the people who are affected by these issues and that we are committed to social justice. Here are some tips for overcoming the struggle with discussing issues related to oppression, privilege, and intersectionality:- Educate yourself. The more you know about these issues, the more confident you will be in your ability to discuss them. Read books, articles, and blog posts on the subject. Watch documentaries and listen to podcasts. Talk to people who are directly affected by these issues.
- Be mindful of your language. Before you use a particular term, take a moment to think about its meaning and implications. Is it accurate? Is it respectful? If you are not sure, err on the side of caution and avoid using it.
- Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, especially when they are learning something new. If you say something that is offensive or inaccurate, apologize and correct yourself.
- Seek support. If you are feeling uncomfortable discussing these issues with a particular person, talk to someone else who you trust. You can also join a support group or online community where you can discuss these issues with other people who are passionate about social justice.