Oppression

Definition

Oppression refers to the systematic and prolonged cruel or unjust treatment of individuals or groups, often based on characteristics such as race, gender, or class. It manifests in various forms including social, economic, and political disadvantages that limit the rights and freedoms of marginalized communities. In understanding oppression, one can see how it influences movements for social justice and equality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association aimed to address the oppression faced by Black people by promoting self-reliance, unity, and empowerment through the establishment of a strong African diaspora.
2. Garvey emphasized economic independence as a key to combating oppression, encouraging Black people to support their own businesses and communities.
3. The ideology of Black nationalism advocated by Garvey was a direct response to the systemic racism and oppression prevalent in early 20th-century America.
4. Oppression under colonial rule was also highlighted by Garvey as he sought to connect African Americans with their African heritage and the struggles faced by colonized peoples.
5. Garvey's movement inspired future civil rights leaders to recognize the importance of fighting against oppression on both a local and global scale.

Review Questions

• How did Marcus Garvey's vision for the Universal Negro Improvement Association address the issue of oppression faced by African Americans?
  • Marcus Garvey's vision for the Universal Negro Improvement Association was centered around addressing the oppression of African Americans through self-empowerment and unity. He believed that by fostering a sense of pride in African heritage and promoting economic independence, Black people could resist the systemic inequalities they faced. This approach sought to combat oppression not only at an individual level but also collectively by building a strong community that could advocate for their rights.
• In what ways did Garvey's ideology challenge existing systems of oppression during his time?
  • Garvey's ideology challenged existing systems of oppression by promoting Black nationalism and emphasizing the need for African Americans to take control of their own destinies. His call for economic self-sufficiency directly confronted racial discrimination by encouraging Black communities to establish their own businesses. Additionally, Garvey’s focus on returning to Africa highlighted the injustices of colonialism, positioning the struggle against oppression as a global issue that connected all people of African descent.
• Evaluate the impact of Garvey’s movement on later civil rights efforts in America regarding their approach to addressing oppression.
  • Garvey’s movement had a lasting impact on later civil rights efforts by laying the groundwork for understanding oppression in a broader context. His emphasis on economic empowerment and cultural pride influenced future leaders who recognized that fighting for civil rights involved more than legal changes; it required a fundamental shift in how Black communities viewed themselves. By framing oppression as both a personal and collective battle, Garvey inspired activists to adopt comprehensive strategies that included cultural reclamation alongside political action, shaping the trajectory of civil rights movements in America.

Related terms

Discrimination: The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, often rooted in systemic inequalities that reinforce oppression.

Civil Rights Movement: A struggle for social justice that aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s.

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring control over another country or territory, often leading to the oppression of the native population and exploitation of resources.