Examples Of Oppression: The Invisible Backpack
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
Oppression: The Invisible Backpack
Hailey Zayik
Kim Buxton
SWK-110
February 22, 2015
1
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
2
Oppression: The Invisible Backpack
Oppression is experienced by every individual, each in unique ways. As defined by The
Social Work Dictionary, oppression is; “the social act of placing severe restrictions on an individual, group, or institution. Typically, a government or political organization that is in power places these restrictions formally or covertly on oppressed groups so that they may be exploited and less able to compete with other social groups. The oppressed individual or group is devalued, exploited, and deprived of privileges by the …show more content…
individual or group who has more power” (pp.
306-307). As this is a universal definition, the ‘Invisible Backpack’ article allowed me to see oppression from a unique viewpoint, recognizing that as we experience unearned power and strength, we are viewed by others as oppressive to white privileged. Oppression comes in various forms, each experienced differently by different members of society. A few different forms of oppression are; sexism, ageism, classism, heterosexism, and most recognized, racism. For example, McIntosh states; “A a white person, I realized I had been taught about racism as something that puts others at a disadvantage, but has been taught not to see one of its corollary aspects, white privilege, which puts me at an advantage.” (McIntosh, 1998) This is exactly what I was taught throughout all of my schooling, never once was racism put into the perspective of putting myself at an advantage, it has always been looked at as a negative/disadvantage for those experiencing it. Sexism, classism and ageism are three forms of oppression that are experienced by society each day, although not all are addressed. As humans, surrounded by diversity, we recognize how fortunate we are to not be experiencing oppression, but in reality we are oppressive towards such feeling, thus being unconscious of them.
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
3
Being part of the female population, there has never been a shortage of sexism experiences, especially within the workplace. Not only have I personally experienced it, but I view occurrences on a daily basis. Sexism can be defined as a form of discrimination against a specific gender, it describes the ideology of one gender being more superior than another. Can also be noted as a system of ideas, both conscious and subconscious that humans feel, this can be from their family development, professional setting, or their socialization. (STEM, 2015) Being a woman is a privilege. Experiencing oppression due to gender is not. I have been discriminated against in my places of work, in each circumstance my boss had been a male. Although this may have been a coincidence, sexism experienced I had thought to have been ‘normal’ and
‘acceptable’. Having ‘white privilege’, which allowed me to obtain the positions I had put myself in the mind frame that it was tolerable for a male within higher positions to treat and address me how they did. For example; within one of my recent positions, I offered ideas to senior management which instantly led to being called, and told I am a ‘good girl’. Is a male ever told he is a ‘good boy’ by other male management? Also, when in discussions and male colleges accuse me of menstruating. These are just a couple ways women of all races experience sexism within the workplace. What about that statement is acceptable towards a female from a male? I do have white privilege, this may be why I received these positions, but my gender does not stop the oppression experienced within such circumstances.
Classism is one of the most undiscussed, unacknowledged forms of oppression in today’s society. The issue of social class may be one of the most exclusive of the social ills that is confronting humans currently. Class can be perspectively defined as; “the status an individual or group achieves by virtue of its economic strength, the influence among other groups, and the
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
4
power to affect change in its community of choice.” From an opposite perspective, classism is
‘the systematic oppression of subordinated groups, who work for wages for the dominant groups’.(Brantley, 2003) When reviewing the article The Invisible Backpack, as McIntosh says,
“I have come to see white privilege as an invisible package of unearned assets which I can count on cashing in each day, but about which I was ‘meant’ to remain oblivious.” (McIntosh, 1998)
Personally, having never experienced classism, it seemed nearly impossible to envision the oppression those less fortunate are experiencing. I have not earned where I am in life today, I did not work to make my living. It was handed to me. Now having deeper understanding of oppression, diversity and privilege through the eyes of an invisible backpack, it is clear to identify daily effects and benefits white privilege has given me. I can leave work/school and go home to a large house in the country with a large amount of land, never having to worry I will not be able to make a payment. I can wear second hand clothes if I choose without having people associate the style with negative stereotypes, or I can buy expensive fashions without fear my card will be declined. I can be confident that my neighbours or associates in the location I live will be neutral and positive towards me, also that they have similar values and beliefs.
Reviewing the privileges I unknowingly received from classism, there are also steps I will take to remove myself from a ‘classist’ mind frame. For example; learning more about the history and experience of all working and impoverished people, open myself to experience the language and culture of working peoples, and by claiming my identity, learning my history as a dominant group. As we, (the dominant subordinated groups) recognize classism, further work towards creating change can occur. As we work in conjunction, all members of society no matter class, can make progression towards a ‘class-free society’ (Brantley, 2003).
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
5
Ageism is a form of oppression which refers to two concepts: “a socially constructed way of thinking about older persons based on negative attitudes and stereotypes about aging and a tendency to structure society based on an assumption that everyone is young, thereby failing to respond appropriately to the real needs of older persons.” (OHRC, 2015) In Canada, seniors make up the fastest growing population. In 2011, Employment and Social Development Canada found that 5.0 million Canadians were 65 years of age and older, within the next 25 years that number is expected to double to reach 10.4 million, and by 2051 one in four Canadians is expected to be over 65 years in age. (HRSDC, 2015) Ageism is not taken as seriously as many forms of discrimination, although can have similar economic, psychological and social impacts.
Elderly members of society have few privileges. Relationships between elder maltreatment and affiliation to an oppressed group has not been adequately investigated and their voices are rarely solicited or requested. Elderly experience oppression in workplaces, shopping centres, church, and most knowingly, senior care centres. As a young woman, I have the privilege of not ‘yet’ having to experience oppression of age. For instance; I have the opportunity to apply for the same position as an elderly person, and few doubts about receiving the position, and I do not have to be concerned with mistreatment or stereotypical circumstances within the place I resign.
As ‘white privilege’ has allowed unconscious benefits to occur within myself, I has not recognized what I had taken advantage of regarding my age. Ageism will occur to each member of society at one point within their life, although experiencing the privilege of youth currently, oppression of age comes as years pass.
“Anti-oppressive social work involves intervention that is not confined to individuals but that spans the social structural level of society. It involves critical reflection about oppression and
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
6
its harmful effects on clients and action based learning from such reflection.” (Heinonen &
Spearmam, 2006) A career in social work involves working with diverse populations such as; different race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, age, etc. Going into a case with an open mind allows for diverse opportunities of growth, understanding and expression, which in turn will alleviate the chances of a social worker oppressing their client. One of the most common forms of oppression that social workers hear from their clients is racism.
Having never personally experienced race oppression myself, my attempt would be to remind myself of ‘white privilege,’ how although unknown and subconscious privileges, not all members in society received this. From the Invisible Backpack I was able to see what I experienced in life from an unusual viewpoint, focusing on the unfair, unearned privileges I received. Social workers goal is to ‘alleviate poverty; liberate vulnerable and oppressed people with the ultimate aim to promote social inclusion’ (International Federation of Social Workers, 2012). As a social worker, I will work with my clients to reflect on oppression they’ve experienced by working from two viewpoints; anti-oppressive practice (AOP) and anti-discriminatory practice (ADP). AOP strives to overcome oppression by focusing on more expansive issues of discrimination that society is experiencing as it is perpetuated by social systems, class and structures. From this practice, clients will reflect on not only how they feel, but also where they feel the root of oppression is and how to overcome it. Looking at the larger social systems will open a wider perspective …show more content…
for our clients, allowing greater change to be made. ADP directs attention towards minimizing and reducing oppression which is from one individual to another. (Module 5, 2015) As a worker, incorporating this form of anti-oppressive practice will allow for individuals to personally reflect on their direct experiences, how they felt during and after, and what they felt the other person
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
7
gained from the discrimination. As social works we must indicate and demonstrate complete care for our client’s interests and concerns, by limiting professional practice areas to focus on rooted issues. As social workers we expect our clients to reflect on their circumstances and emotions, are we expected to do the same for ourselves? Previously I was unaware of the severity of oppression and the unconscious effects ‘white privilege’ can have on not only ourselves, but also those around us. McIntosh compares male privilege to that of ‘white privilege’ stating that,
“Thinking through unacknowledged male privilege as a phenomena, I realized that, since hierarchies in our society are interlocking, there is most likely a phenomena of white privilege that was similarly denied and protected.” (McIntosh, 1998) Being someone who has only experienced sexism as a form of oppression, I cannot honestly say that I understand what those going through, are feeling. Although, with saying that, now having a clear definition of what oppression is,and it’s forms, outcomes, and effects, will allow for more diversity within client sessions. Also, from this article I was able to specifically realize what a beneficial impact ‘white privilege’ has had on my life, but yet also realizing how oblivious I was to oppression and others view of myself. Minnich, a colleague of McIntosh’s, expressed that a white people we are taught to think of ‘their’ lives as normative, neutral and average, so that when we work to benefit others it is seen as work that will allow them to be ‘more like us’.
I do not want to be a white person who uses ‘white privilege’ to their advantage. Becoming a social worker, my mind is focused on the safety, security and well-being of my client. If our clients are unsure of our authenticity towards the helping profession they may not feel open to discussing their experiences of oppression as they fear we may judge them. As my personal awareness on oppression and
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
diversity has expanded, realization of the importance of open dialogue with colleagues and mentoring students on how to incorporate anti-oppressive principles in practice is also fundamental to reflecting upon power and oppression in social work practice. (Johns, 2013)
Although oppression can never be completely rid of, there are ways to greatly decrease its prevalence. Each person will experience oppression, each in a varying forms. Oppressed individuals are exploited, and deprived of privileges that they rightfully deserve. As a social worker it is our job to create the extinction of ‘white privilege’ and allow oppressed individuals to be safe and secure within their lives. Oppression we are aware of can be put to
rest.
8
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
9
Citations
Johns, A. (n.d.). Ethical Ponderings on Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice. Retrieved
February 21, 2015, from http://www.nlasw.ca/pdf/Practice Matters/Ethical Ponderings on
Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice.pdf
Module 5: Equality and Diversity. (n.d.). Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://www.tcsw.org.uk/uploadedFiles/TheCollege/Social_Work_Practice/RtSW Module
5 Equality Diversity FINAL.pdf
Brantley, C. (2003, January 1). Class: Power, Privilege, and Influence in the United States.
Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://www.workforcediversitynetwork.com/docs/ class_9.pdf What is Sexism & How Does it Work in STEM? (2014, April 8). Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://www.stemwomen.net/what-is-sexism/
Ageism and age discrimination (fact sheet). (n.d.). Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http:// www.ohrc.on.ca/en/ageism-and-age-discrimination-fact-sheet Canadians in Context - Aging Population. (2015, January 4). Retrieved February 21,
2015, from http://www4.hrsdc.gc.ca/.3ndic.1t.4r@-eng.jsp?iid=33
McIntosh, P. (1989, August 1). Unpacking the Invisible Backpack. Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://boothonline.boothuc.ca/file.php/142/Unit_4_Oppression/
Unpacking_the_Invisible_Backpack_-_Mackintosh.pdf
Oppression: The Invisible Backpack
Hailey Zayik
Kim Buxton
SWK-110
February 22, 2015
1
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
2
Oppression: The Invisible Backpack
Oppression is experienced by every individual, each in unique ways. As defined by The
Social Work Dictionary, oppression is; “the social act of placing severe restrictions on an individual, group, or institution. Typically, a government or political organization that is in power places these restrictions formally or covertly on oppressed groups so that they may be exploited and less able to compete with other social groups. The oppressed individual or group is devalued, exploited, and deprived of privileges by the …show more content…
individual or group who has more power” (pp.
306-307). As this is a universal definition, the ‘Invisible Backpack’ article allowed me to see oppression from a unique viewpoint, recognizing that as we experience unearned power and strength, we are viewed by others as oppressive to white privileged. Oppression comes in various forms, each experienced differently by different members of society. A few different forms of oppression are; sexism, ageism, classism, heterosexism, and most recognized, racism. For example, McIntosh states; “A a white person, I realized I had been taught about racism as something that puts others at a disadvantage, but has been taught not to see one of its corollary aspects, white privilege, which puts me at an advantage.” (McIntosh, 1998) This is exactly what I was taught throughout all of my schooling, never once was racism put into the perspective of putting myself at an advantage, it has always been looked at as a negative/disadvantage for those experiencing it. Sexism, classism and ageism are three forms of oppression that are experienced by society each day, although not all are addressed. As humans, surrounded by diversity, we recognize how fortunate we are to not be experiencing oppression, but in reality we are oppressive towards such feeling, thus being unconscious of them.
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
3
Being part of the female population, there has never been a shortage of sexism experiences, especially within the workplace. Not only have I personally experienced it, but I view occurrences on a daily basis. Sexism can be defined as a form of discrimination against a specific gender, it describes the ideology of one gender being more superior than another. Can also be noted as a system of ideas, both conscious and subconscious that humans feel, this can be from their family development, professional setting, or their socialization. (STEM, 2015) Being a woman is a privilege. Experiencing oppression due to gender is not. I have been discriminated against in my places of work, in each circumstance my boss had been a male. Although this may have been a coincidence, sexism experienced I had thought to have been ‘normal’ and
‘acceptable’. Having ‘white privilege’, which allowed me to obtain the positions I had put myself in the mind frame that it was tolerable for a male within higher positions to treat and address me how they did. For example; within one of my recent positions, I offered ideas to senior management which instantly led to being called, and told I am a ‘good girl’. Is a male ever told he is a ‘good boy’ by other male management? Also, when in discussions and male colleges accuse me of menstruating. These are just a couple ways women of all races experience sexism within the workplace. What about that statement is acceptable towards a female from a male? I do have white privilege, this may be why I received these positions, but my gender does not stop the oppression experienced within such circumstances.
Classism is one of the most undiscussed, unacknowledged forms of oppression in today’s society. The issue of social class may be one of the most exclusive of the social ills that is confronting humans currently. Class can be perspectively defined as; “the status an individual or group achieves by virtue of its economic strength, the influence among other groups, and the
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
4
power to affect change in its community of choice.” From an opposite perspective, classism is
‘the systematic oppression of subordinated groups, who work for wages for the dominant groups’.(Brantley, 2003) When reviewing the article The Invisible Backpack, as McIntosh says,
“I have come to see white privilege as an invisible package of unearned assets which I can count on cashing in each day, but about which I was ‘meant’ to remain oblivious.” (McIntosh, 1998)
Personally, having never experienced classism, it seemed nearly impossible to envision the oppression those less fortunate are experiencing. I have not earned where I am in life today, I did not work to make my living. It was handed to me. Now having deeper understanding of oppression, diversity and privilege through the eyes of an invisible backpack, it is clear to identify daily effects and benefits white privilege has given me. I can leave work/school and go home to a large house in the country with a large amount of land, never having to worry I will not be able to make a payment. I can wear second hand clothes if I choose without having people associate the style with negative stereotypes, or I can buy expensive fashions without fear my card will be declined. I can be confident that my neighbours or associates in the location I live will be neutral and positive towards me, also that they have similar values and beliefs.
Reviewing the privileges I unknowingly received from classism, there are also steps I will take to remove myself from a ‘classist’ mind frame. For example; learning more about the history and experience of all working and impoverished people, open myself to experience the language and culture of working peoples, and by claiming my identity, learning my history as a dominant group. As we, (the dominant subordinated groups) recognize classism, further work towards creating change can occur. As we work in conjunction, all members of society no matter class, can make progression towards a ‘class-free society’ (Brantley, 2003).
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
5
Ageism is a form of oppression which refers to two concepts: “a socially constructed way of thinking about older persons based on negative attitudes and stereotypes about aging and a tendency to structure society based on an assumption that everyone is young, thereby failing to respond appropriately to the real needs of older persons.” (OHRC, 2015) In Canada, seniors make up the fastest growing population. In 2011, Employment and Social Development Canada found that 5.0 million Canadians were 65 years of age and older, within the next 25 years that number is expected to double to reach 10.4 million, and by 2051 one in four Canadians is expected to be over 65 years in age. (HRSDC, 2015) Ageism is not taken as seriously as many forms of discrimination, although can have similar economic, psychological and social impacts.
Elderly members of society have few privileges. Relationships between elder maltreatment and affiliation to an oppressed group has not been adequately investigated and their voices are rarely solicited or requested. Elderly experience oppression in workplaces, shopping centres, church, and most knowingly, senior care centres. As a young woman, I have the privilege of not ‘yet’ having to experience oppression of age. For instance; I have the opportunity to apply for the same position as an elderly person, and few doubts about receiving the position, and I do not have to be concerned with mistreatment or stereotypical circumstances within the place I resign.
As ‘white privilege’ has allowed unconscious benefits to occur within myself, I has not recognized what I had taken advantage of regarding my age. Ageism will occur to each member of society at one point within their life, although experiencing the privilege of youth currently, oppression of age comes as years pass.
“Anti-oppressive social work involves intervention that is not confined to individuals but that spans the social structural level of society. It involves critical reflection about oppression and
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
6
its harmful effects on clients and action based learning from such reflection.” (Heinonen &
Spearmam, 2006) A career in social work involves working with diverse populations such as; different race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, age, etc. Going into a case with an open mind allows for diverse opportunities of growth, understanding and expression, which in turn will alleviate the chances of a social worker oppressing their client. One of the most common forms of oppression that social workers hear from their clients is racism.
Having never personally experienced race oppression myself, my attempt would be to remind myself of ‘white privilege,’ how although unknown and subconscious privileges, not all members in society received this. From the Invisible Backpack I was able to see what I experienced in life from an unusual viewpoint, focusing on the unfair, unearned privileges I received. Social workers goal is to ‘alleviate poverty; liberate vulnerable and oppressed people with the ultimate aim to promote social inclusion’ (International Federation of Social Workers, 2012). As a social worker, I will work with my clients to reflect on oppression they’ve experienced by working from two viewpoints; anti-oppressive practice (AOP) and anti-discriminatory practice (ADP). AOP strives to overcome oppression by focusing on more expansive issues of discrimination that society is experiencing as it is perpetuated by social systems, class and structures. From this practice, clients will reflect on not only how they feel, but also where they feel the root of oppression is and how to overcome it. Looking at the larger social systems will open a wider perspective …show more content…
for our clients, allowing greater change to be made. ADP directs attention towards minimizing and reducing oppression which is from one individual to another. (Module 5, 2015) As a worker, incorporating this form of anti-oppressive practice will allow for individuals to personally reflect on their direct experiences, how they felt during and after, and what they felt the other person
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
7
gained from the discrimination. As social works we must indicate and demonstrate complete care for our client’s interests and concerns, by limiting professional practice areas to focus on rooted issues. As social workers we expect our clients to reflect on their circumstances and emotions, are we expected to do the same for ourselves? Previously I was unaware of the severity of oppression and the unconscious effects ‘white privilege’ can have on not only ourselves, but also those around us. McIntosh compares male privilege to that of ‘white privilege’ stating that,
“Thinking through unacknowledged male privilege as a phenomena, I realized that, since hierarchies in our society are interlocking, there is most likely a phenomena of white privilege that was similarly denied and protected.” (McIntosh, 1998) Being someone who has only experienced sexism as a form of oppression, I cannot honestly say that I understand what those going through, are feeling. Although, with saying that, now having a clear definition of what oppression is,and it’s forms, outcomes, and effects, will allow for more diversity within client sessions. Also, from this article I was able to specifically realize what a beneficial impact ‘white privilege’ has had on my life, but yet also realizing how oblivious I was to oppression and others view of myself. Minnich, a colleague of McIntosh’s, expressed that a white people we are taught to think of ‘their’ lives as normative, neutral and average, so that when we work to benefit others it is seen as work that will allow them to be ‘more like us’.
I do not want to be a white person who uses ‘white privilege’ to their advantage. Becoming a social worker, my mind is focused on the safety, security and well-being of my client. If our clients are unsure of our authenticity towards the helping profession they may not feel open to discussing their experiences of oppression as they fear we may judge them. As my personal awareness on oppression and
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
diversity has expanded, realization of the importance of open dialogue with colleagues and mentoring students on how to incorporate anti-oppressive principles in practice is also fundamental to reflecting upon power and oppression in social work practice. (Johns, 2013)
Although oppression can never be completely rid of, there are ways to greatly decrease its prevalence. Each person will experience oppression, each in a varying forms. Oppressed individuals are exploited, and deprived of privileges that they rightfully deserve. As a social worker it is our job to create the extinction of ‘white privilege’ and allow oppressed individuals to be safe and secure within their lives. Oppression we are aware of can be put to
rest.
8
Running Head: OPPRESSOION: THE INVISIBLE BACKPACK
9
Citations
Johns, A. (n.d.). Ethical Ponderings on Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice. Retrieved
February 21, 2015, from http://www.nlasw.ca/pdf/Practice Matters/Ethical Ponderings on
Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice.pdf
Module 5: Equality and Diversity. (n.d.). Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://www.tcsw.org.uk/uploadedFiles/TheCollege/Social_Work_Practice/RtSW Module
5 Equality Diversity FINAL.pdf
Brantley, C. (2003, January 1). Class: Power, Privilege, and Influence in the United States.
Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://www.workforcediversitynetwork.com/docs/ class_9.pdf What is Sexism & How Does it Work in STEM? (2014, April 8). Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://www.stemwomen.net/what-is-sexism/
Ageism and age discrimination (fact sheet). (n.d.). Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http:// www.ohrc.on.ca/en/ageism-and-age-discrimination-fact-sheet Canadians in Context - Aging Population. (2015, January 4). Retrieved February 21,
2015, from http://www4.hrsdc.gc.ca/.3ndic.1t.4r@-eng.jsp?iid=33
McIntosh, P. (1989, August 1). Unpacking the Invisible Backpack. Retrieved February 21, 2015, from http://boothonline.boothuc.ca/file.php/142/Unit_4_Oppression/
Unpacking_the_Invisible_Backpack_-_Mackintosh.pdf