Order Description

 

 

 

Anne Bishop (2002) notes that “1) we all have the experience of both being oppressed and oppressing others; 2) our experience of oppressing others is often hard to access because privilege is invisible; and 3) our oppression of others is based on unhealed, and often unconscious, pain from our own experience of being oppressed” (p.127). “On the other hand, it is difficult to be aware of one’s experience of oppressing others” (p.128). This paper is intended to help us move the invisible and unconscious into visibility in order to harness this awareness to enhance our anti- oppression practice. The article The Invisible Backpack in your course pack will help.

The dimensions listed below interact with one another to form a personal and social identity. Referring directly to your first few weeks of reflective journals, and the knowledge you have acquired from class, write a 7-10 page paper reflecting on your own social identity. Self-awareness is a critical tool of anti-oppressive social services work. Use language that is reflective of anti- oppression or empowerment, rather than everyday language. Integrate at least 3 articles from the readings through direct citations or references and use APA citation and a Reference page.

Choose 10 of the following dimensions and reflect on your perceptions of yourself in relation to the dominant:

1) Social class (past and present)
ii) racialized identity
iii) sex and gender
iv) age
v) language preferences/identity
vi) sexualorientation
vii) religion/faith
viii) ability/[dis]ability/health
ix) national origin
x) relationship status
xi) particular ideologies
xii) occupationstatus
xiii) education
xiv) family type and background

 

 

2. Discuss if any of these dimensions interact with another to reinforce a particular social dominant or non-dominant status. The concept of multiplicity will be helpful here.

3. In conclusion, reflect on two dimensions of the current aspects of your social identity that might have a potential impact on children, youth or families who may be “other” or member’s oppressed groups.