What does “oppression” mean? Webster’s dictionary says Oppression is “Prolonged(excessive) cruel and unjust treatment or exercising of authority”.
We often think of oppression in a political application, nation or political group against the same, but “oppression” has real-time lived applications in our daily lives.
Well, that certainly encompasses many situations we often see in our daily lives. Have ever seen someone raise their hands in anger at a spouse, child, or another person? Do you know someone who is forced to work in poor conditions, being paid very low wages, and often having to experience sexual or mental abuse because they really need the job?
Have you met someone who was or is a freedom fighter, someone who fought for their people’s freedom or separation from an oppressive government? A young person who ran away from home because they experienced some form of abuse, and needed to escape it?
Oppression is a state of mind, a psychological formula that manipulates, and distorts the truth, is filled with anger and projects fear upon others. One can begin one’s life developing a connection to this state when one meets your first bully, whether it be a parent, sibling or within a school setting. If someone’s wishes are forced upon you, that is a form of oppression. “Your going to do this, or else” or “if you cannot do this, your a failure and wimp”. Oppression manipulates us and moulds us through its use of psychological and often physical influences. As a child, one is expected to be moulded (by parents and teachers) into well-balanced individuals. If any of those who are intended to mould someone is mentally or psychologically challenged in some way this will imprint upon the moulded child. Something very simple can over time develops into a severe psychosis and fear that will stay with the child as they age. That is a form of oppression, although it is unintended.
Entire peoples have and are being oppressed by others. Colonialism is often seen as an intended gift to those less educated, religiously and culturally by other nations. It is easier for an oppressor to live with their intended purpose if they believe they are doing good to lesser people. In Africa, the colonial powers stripped nations of their natural resources while giving them religion, education and structure through the introduction of Christianity and Islam(in the North). Oppression exists for a reason. While most of us believe that a society living in peace and harmony is an ideal, oppressive force sees this as an opportunity. When fear is applied to oppressive tactics people naturally respond in a submissive manner. All people want to return to a peaceful situation, and that is what oppressive forces would promise. Do as we say, and nothing will really change for you and your family.
When a couple argues and fights, and a partner harms the other, that is oppression. Why do 55% of American Women living in an abusive situation return to their partner, often not having the oppressor charged with a crime? They want to return to what was for them a perfect time when their family loved each other in peace. Protect their children and give their oppressors another chance perhaps to do what’s right. What many of us do not notice is that those who oppress others, are themselves damaged individuals, organizations or even empires. The Ottoman/Turkish Nation subjugated many other ethnic nations within its territories. This oppression often leads to war and even genocide. During World War One the Ottoman Empire tried to wipe out The Armenian People, murdering millions in the process and bringing about a long-lasting struggle against terrorism that lasts to this day. The Ottoman Empire was fearful of its own collapse, therefore it reacted like so many others, with violence and tunnel vision, those who are not with us, are against our attitude.
Oppression is a noun and adjective. It is, and it does. Oppression is a living, breathing thing, much like a human being. It exists because you allow it to, it spreads due to your fear and ignorance and apathy. By not recognizing oppressiveness that surrounds you, within your society and lived space. you allow it to flourish and grow, much like the weeds in your garden.
You cannot be a free person if any form of oppression is allowed to exist. That is a challenge not easily dealt with. Oppression exists everywhere that another human being may reside. Within your family, neighbourhood, workplace, school and play area. Oppression brings with it fear, anger, jealousy, envy and seemingly all the other deadly sins.
How do we defeat oppression? In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Justice can bring about an end to oppression. It is an act of justice, protecting all of our fundamental human rights, the right to dignity and a decent life” that can defeat oppression, poverty and inequality. Look at another as if that person was you. How would you like to be treated? (Matthew 22.39) Powerful words are found in many of religion’s most sacred texts. Who in their right mind wants to be oppressed by another?
Living our daily lives demands us to be cooperative, humble and empathetic to others. It is my hope that the handshake will always win over the widespread raised fist of anger and fear that oppresses millions of us on a daily basis.
Steven Kaszab
Bradford, Ontario
