The relationship that exists between the oppressors and the oppressed is one that damages both sides. The powerful, in judging others, allow themselves to be criticized for their behavior which often causes them to be persecuted as well. The piece Black Men in Public Spaces talks about the relationship between black men and the white men oppressing them. This situation hurts whites as well as blacks. White people are often criticized for being racist or intolerant. We may be the ones with power, but we are never the less oppressing ourselves in subtle ways when we attack other groups. Another example of the damaging effects of this relationship for both sides can be seen in The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven. The piece discusses how whites stereotype Native Americans and are generally not accepting of their culture. An example of this is when Alexie's teacher expects him to cut his hair. Because of the damage they do to Native Americans, whites open themselves up to criticism. Native Americans and others can sometimes persecute whites because of the actions of only a portion of us. An example of this relationship between whites and Native Americans can be seen today with the controversy of the Washington Redskins.
South Park pokes fun at this issue:
The whites that want to keep the name, and the Native Americans who advocate for change both feel that the other side is oppressing them.
Allow me to play you out...
(a song about an oppressive relationship, where both sides seem to be hurt)
No comments:
Post a Comment