Each of the following terms, listed in alphabetical order, has 1) a basic definition and 2) an example sentence showing how the term may be used in context.
allyship (noun): Supporting and advocating for marginalized communities by using one’s privilege to challenge systemic injustices. – She showed her allyship by actively amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups in meetings and discussions.
colorism (noun): Discrimination or prejudice based on skin color, often within the same racial or ethnic group. – Colorism can lead to lighter-skinned individuals receiving preferential treatment compared to those with darker skin.
critical race theory (noun): An academic framework examining the intersections of race, power, and systemic racism in society. – Critical Race Theory analyzes how racial prejudices are embedded in legal and educational systems.
cultural activism (noun): Promoting social and political change through artistic expression, cultural practices, and community engagement. – The dance performance was a powerful form of cultural activism, raising awareness about indigenous rights.
cultural appropriation (noun): Adopting elements of another culture without understanding or respecting its historical and social context. – Wearing a sacred tribal headdress as a fashion statement is an act of cultural appropriation.
decolonization (noun): The process of challenging and dismantling colonial ideologies, structures, and legacies. – Decolonization involves reevaluating historical narratives and empowering indigenous communities to reclaim their culture.
gender binary (noun) The classification of gender into strictly male and female categories, disregarding non-binary and gender fluid identities. – Recognizing only ‘man’ and ‘woman’ ignores the diverse range of gender identities beyond the gender binary.
identity politics (noun): Recognition of how individual and group identities influence power dynamics and social issues. – Identity politics emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the unique experiences of marginalized communities.
intersectionality (noun): The recognition of how various forms of oppression (for example, race, gender, class) intersect and compound each other. – Intersectionality acknowledges that individuals can face discrimination based on multiple aspects of their identity.
marginalization (noun): The systematic exclusion or relegation of certain groups to the fringes of society. – People with disabilities often face marginalization.
microaggression (noun): Subtle, often unintentional, acts or comments that demean or marginalize individuals based on their identity. – His constant remarks about her accent were microaggressions that made her feel alienated.
oppression (noun): The unjust exercise of power and control over individuals or groups, often resulting in discrimination and inequality. – The oppressive regime suppressed freedom of speech and violated basic human rights.
privilege (noun): Unearned advantages granted to individuals based on their social, economic, or racial background. – Growing up in a wealthy neighborhood, he was unaware of the privilege he had until he learned about systemic inequalities.
queer theory (noun): An academic framework that explores and challenges normative assumptions about gender, sexuality, and identity. – Queer theory critiques the societal norms that limit people’s understanding of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
safe space (noun): A supportive environment that fosters open dialogue, respect, and emotional safety for marginalized individuals. – The LGBTQ+ support group created a safe space where members could share their experiences without fear of judgment.
social construct (noun): A concept or idea created and maintained by society that shapes perceptions and norms. – Money is a social construct that society agrees upon as a medium of exchange for goods and services.
social justice (noun): The pursuit of fairness and equity in society, addressing systemic injustices and advocating for marginalized groups. – Her activism was driven by a deep commitment to social justice and equality for all.
systemic oppression (noun): Institutionalized practices and structures that perpetuate inequality and discrimination. – Systemic oppression manifests through discriminatory policies that limit access to education and job opportunities.
tokenism (noun): Superficial inclusion of individuals from marginalized groups to give the appearance of diversity. – She felt like she was hired as a token minority employee, with her ideas often ignored or dismissed.
white fragility (noun): Defensive reactions and resistance from white individuals when confronted with discussions about race or racism. – His white fragility was evident when he dismissed the experiences of people of colour during the conversation.
