Oppression

Personal

As we grow up, we are taught directly and indirectly what our value is in the world. Those who are in dominant groups, for example, a dominant racial group, which in Canada is white people, are also fed subtle and not so subtle messages of superiority that make them believe that they are somehow above certain groups of people. And while those in the dominant groups may never outwardly express their beliefs, their prejudice still seeps into their interactions with those people they believe are under them.

What are some beliefs you have developed over the years that would be considered as personal oppression?

Interpersonal

Oppression at the interpersonal level focuses on our actions, behaviour and language as we interact with individuals different from us. When we take those personal beliefs and bring them into relationships and interactions we have with others, that is interpersonal oppression.

Can you think of any situations where either you or someone else has taken their personal beliefs and used them against others?

Institutional

Oppression at the institutional level includes the rules, policies, procedures and practices which are written and unwritten within an institution that define who can fully participate or those who may be excluded from full participation.

Cultural

Oppression at the cultural level is how we define what is right, normal, the truth, or beautiful. Media and politics have a way of presenting certain beliefs, like the belief that lighter skinned people are more beautiful, as the truth. These cultural messages and norms can be direct and indirect and serve to maintain power and privilege for those in dominant groups.