5 faces of oppression

This reading discusses in depth how Blacks, American Indians, Chicanos, Jews, physically and mentally disabled, elderly, etc are discriminated against in society. She talks primarily about five different types of oppression including powerlessness, exploitation, violence, cultural imperialism, and marginalization. It also addresses how the oppression of one group creates advantages for another, and how such behavior results in the forming of social norms and stereotypes by and for all. It was interesting to read about how each group is oppressed differently and how they may even receive a combination of the types. Personally, this reading was impacting because it was forward and stated the obvious, that everyone is oppressed and discriminated against regardless of their heritage or status in society. Everyone has experienced oppression and it is unfortunate that it still continues. But the harsh reality is that it probably will not stop and we can only hope to develop new strategies that will slowly but surely bring about positive change. In an effort to better understand oppression, one must be able to define it in a way that is consistent with it’s effect on individuals and society as a whole. According to the reading, oppression is any disadvantage or injustice that someone faces because of everyday practices. This definition is simply put, and can’t possibly grasp the negative consequences of such. Perhaps experiencing oppression is the only way to fully comprehend it.