Understanding Oppression and Privilege

Understanding Oppression and Privilege
Understanding oppression and privilege is critical for achieving equity and changing practices to support positive outcomes for everyone. The use of power by one group to disempower, marginalize, or dominate another group is referred to as oppression. Acts of oppression have become commonplace in recent years. Oppression can manifest itself in a variety of ways. There are numerous types of oppression, just as there are numerous types of privilege. Privilege refers to the unearned power and benefits that members of the dominant group receive as a direct result of oppression and marginalization experienced by individuals who are not members of the dominant group. In conclusion, oppression and privilege are opposed. I have personally dealt with privileges and oppression. This proves that anyone is subjected to these two. There are times when I felt that I was dominant and superior to others, and there are also times when I felt submissive and that I am inferior to others. Hence, it is a privilege for me to have experienced both privilege and oppression.
Socio-economic status is a determinant of privileges given by society. My parents’ income falls in the high-income category. My parents were able to finish school and get their degrees. And my parents own a business in our hometown. Thus, our family belongs to the upper-middle class. We all know that people’s attitudes and behavior may sometimes rely on a person’s socio-economic status. Most of the time, poor people receive hate and judgment, are not treated fairly, and are not accepted by society. I have experiences privileges because of our family’s socio-economic status.
Here are the privileges that I have received because of our socio-economic status. First and foremost, my parents were able to provide me with everything I require and desire. I have the coolest toys, gadgets, clothes, shoes, and other accessories. Because most of my items are attention-getters, I relished this opportunity. Second, the majority of our neighbors' children want to befriend me. It's because I have all of the newest and most innovative toys in town. Everyone wants to play with me. However, as I grew older, I realized that they may not like me and that they only played with me because of my toys. Finally, I was able to obtain everything in an instant. If the things I want involve money, I can get them easily. I relished the advantages I had when I was younger. Moreover, I realized that I am excessive; I spent a lot of money on things that were not necessary. I realized that many people are suffering from poverty and hunger. I felt guilty because of the lifestyle I used to have.
Another determinant of societal privileges is race. People give us special treatment because we are Chinese. The Chinese are always referred to as superior to other races. People associate the race with someone in a higher position. I had fir...