Oppression

Definition

Oppression refers to the systemic and prolonged mistreatment, domination, or subjugation of a group or individual based on their identity, characteristics, or beliefs. This term highlights how power dynamics play out in society, often resulting in the marginalization of certain groups, such as racial minorities or LGBTQ+ individuals. It manifests through various forms, including social, economic, political, and cultural discrimination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Audre Lorde's poetry often addresses the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality, making it a powerful tool against oppression.
2. In her work, Lorde emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and confronting internalized oppression within marginalized communities.
3. Lorde's concept of the 'mythical norm' critiques societal standards that favor white, heterosexual, able-bodied individuals, reinforcing systemic oppression.
4. Her writing serves not only as a form of artistic expression but also as activism aimed at dismantling oppressive systems.
5. Lorde's belief in the transformative power of language highlights how poetry can be a means to resist oppression and advocate for change.

Review Questions

• How does Audre Lorde's poetry illustrate the concept of oppression in relation to her identity?
  • Audre Lorde's poetry vividly illustrates oppression through her personal experiences as a Black lesbian woman. She uses her voice to reveal the layers of discrimination she faces not only due to her race but also her sexual orientation. By sharing her struggles and insights, Lorde highlights how systemic oppression affects individuals on multiple fronts, encouraging readers to recognize and challenge these injustices.
• Discuss how Lorde's critique of the 'mythical norm' contributes to understanding systemic oppression.
  • Lorde's critique of the 'mythical norm' is crucial for understanding systemic oppression because it exposes the default standards that society upholds—primarily benefiting white, heterosexual men. By naming this norm, she encourages individuals to question whose voices are prioritized and how those in power create barriers for others. This understanding allows for a deeper analysis of how various forms of oppression intersect and reinforce each other within cultural narratives.
• Evaluate the role of resistance in Audre Lorde's work as a response to oppression.
  • Resistance plays a pivotal role in Audre Lorde's work as she emphasizes the necessity of fighting against all forms of oppression through her poetry. By embracing her identity and challenging societal norms, she inspires others to stand up against injustice. Her belief that writing can be an act of resistance not only empowers marginalized voices but also seeks to create a collective movement towards social change. This reinforces the idea that literature is a powerful medium for advocating against oppressive systems and fostering solidarity among diverse communities.

Related terms

Systemic Inequality: The entrenched disparities in wealth, power, and resources that arise from institutional practices and societal norms.

Intersectionality:

A framework for understanding how multiple social identities, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation, overlap and contribute to unique experiences of discrimination and privilege.

Resistance:

Actions taken by individuals or groups to oppose and challenge systems of oppression and promote social justice.