Question

In your opinion what does it mean for a different majority to be oppressive to other groups at school? For example, should schools in neighborhoods that serve predominantly Mexican American students serve primarily Mexican food in the cafeteria?

Answer 1

Answer:

Social Oppression occurs when a majority of society generalizes a behaviour, custom, or any other aspect of daily life; over a group of people that should accept it as normal since it is normal for that majority.

Explanation:

Conditions

1. A hierarchy is observed, set on race, economic class, gender, nationality, sexuality, physical condition, etc.  Therefore, anything that could create a sense of differentiation.
2. The oppressive majority enjoy differentiated benefits from those of the minority.  
3. The minority will not have the channels to express disconformity towards the situation, due to they are not enough and should accept it as it is.  
4. Even though not all members of the majority will discriminate against a minority, they also enjoy the benefit of being part of this majority.
5. Oppression can exist on the micro-level, person-to-person interactions; and macro-level, as a society or Government.  

Example:

Given the example of the cafeteria on public schools,

• since the majority will request the food they prefer (based on their nationality and culture),
• they will have the benefit since they are the majority (differentiated benefits),
• minorities cannot complain (they are the less),
• some will not discriminate but not say anything either (they belong to the majority); there is a situation of social oppression.

How to resolve a situation of social oppression?

Pay attention to your environment, and try to find people that could be differentiated based on factors previously indicated, or more that you can find.  Make an effort to put yourself in the shoes of that person, and imagine situations that will force you to act in ways you don't want to.  

1. Do you have the means to express your discontent?
2. What will happen to you if you try to complain, as part of this minority?  Will you be oppressed even more, or even punished?  
3. What can you do to avoid social oppression, if you belong to the majority?  
4. What will happen to you if you try to complain, as part of this majority?  Will you be oppressed, or even punished?