Power & Privilege

To understand an anti-oppression framework, we must first understand that oppression is simply a power imbalance. However, the simplicity of oppression allows it to occur very easily as the oppressor is one of the majority in society and they are usually recognized as the “norm”.

As a community ambassador and trainer for a non-profit organization, I am well aware and versed with using an anti-oppression framework. Heterosexism is a major contributor to the oppression of LGBT individuals in society and it continues to marginalize large amounts of people in society as it goes unchallenged in our homes, workplaces, media, and schools.

Working from an anti-oppression framework allows individuals to meet on a cliché “level playing field”. This does not mean that we must ignore differences between people or the diversity that exists in the groups we are working with. It means we must recognize every trait of every individual, group, and community as a unique and valuable asset. When we speak of our differences and educate one another about ourselves, our families, our communities, our countries, we erase stereotypes, assumptions, prejudice and ignorance.

Recognizing diversity in itself as an asset will propel any development work we have at hand. Ensuring that no voice is louder or more powerful than another will allow us to hone in on the assets of the entire body of youth we are working with. The following is the framework/steps I provide my students with in order to be an ally in the workplace, which can easily be applied to the field to aid the our asset-based approach to development:

Awareness

§  Explore how you are different from and similar to people you are working with. Gain this awareness through talking with people, attending workshops and self-examination.

Knowledge and Education

§  Begin to understand policies, laws and practices and how they affect different groups of people. Educate yourself on the many communities and cultures of that exist in society.

Skills

§  This is an area that is difficult for many people. You must learn to take your awareness and knowledge and communicate it to others. You can acquire these skills by attending workshops, role-playing with friends or peers, and developing support connections.

Action

§  This is the most important and frightening step. Despite the fear, action is the only way to effect change in the society as a whole.