INTRODUCTION:
The idea of the terminology Oppressiveisms (TM) came into being around 2002, after writing a
reflection that noted – “The Ability to envision a world where gender equality exists is
directly related to a world where all the other ‘isms’ are themselves non-existent.” Having
written it, I understood the context, its meaning and analysis. However, it seemed troubling that
for many reading the notation, it was not easily understood until there was verbal explanation or
clarification.
I have since been openly using my created word Oppressiveisms (TM) for over two (2) years on
social media platforms and introduced the terminology verbally during one of my Zoom CE
classes. The #rootoutoppressiveisms(TM) has become what I call my – Healthy Social Disruptor
trademark, for elevating, amplifying and voicing up the need to continue the struggle for social
justice, equality and improved social and public well-being. I find that the use of the word
Oppressiveisms(TM) manifests itself to be quite inclusive, and has the ability to present sound
clarity about its related “isms” thereby avoiding ambiguity.
DEFINITION OF OPPRESSIVEISMS (TM):
The Word Oppressiveisms (TM) is the combination the words “Oppressive” + “isms”. It is a noun
(n), preferably used in plural (p) format, with its related “isms” subsets.
Oppressiveisms(TM) establish the foundation, root or umbrella of its related “isms”; present,
lend or portray a magnified and inclusive lens to clarify and identify that which speaks
collectively to the systemic oppression, prejudices and or biases, addressing one and all related
“isms” with the same tone, voice, urgency and vision.
THE “ISM” TRUTH:
The truth is, when we say “ism”, we are still not clear in terms of context and contents. For
example, there are many words such as mannerism, pluralism, favoritism, plagiarism, etc. that
exist. Yet, none of these words are representatives of the “isms” that are tied to systemic
oppression. Consequently, it seems necessary and vitally important that when we speak of the
“isms”, that the context is clear leaving no room for ambiguity and/or exclusivity.
Oppressiveisms (TM) – Establish “ism” clarity. Is authentic “ism” focused. Leave no room
for “ism” ambiguity.
Expressing truth here, that many individuals may experience more than one of the
Oppressiveisms (TM) at any given time, or at some point in their lives. Sharing examples of
demographics for which there is the need to address and treat collectively and inclusively: an
elderly, black woman; a white, disabled man; a person of color identified as LGBT, a white
woman identified as LGBT.
Oppressiveisms (TM) – Give recognition to inclusivity. Render a collective voice, tone and
vision.
Truthfully, Oppressiveisms (TM) have its related “ismst. Such examples include: racism, sexism,
ageism, heterosexism, ableism, classism, colorism/shadeism, culturism, anti-semitism, etc. that
are systemically interrelated. They all meet the criteria of having oppressive behaviors impacted
by prejudices, bias-related ideals, values and beliefs, and defined as personal, interpersonal,
institutional and or cultural/societal. These oppressive behaviors affect individuals of varying
degrees, tearing through the fabric of many lives seemingly different from the established and
esteemed norms.
Oppressiveisms (TM) – Present an established foundation from which the related “isms”
stem, and that which would be addressed with the systemic approach in mind.
OPPRESSIVEISMS (TM) RATIONALES:
Establish the Foundation, Root or Umbrella for all of the “isms” identified as oppressive.
Portray a Magnified lens to the use of the word on how it should be viewed and addressed.
Create a Clarified and Framed lens – Help provide clarification or clarity from the onset; direct
one’s thoughts to the theme and nature of the topic at hand.
Have an Inclusivity lens – The ability to include the related “isms” and treat with same tone,
voice and urgency.
Present Clear, Identifiable and Focused lens – Leave no room for “isms” ambiguity when
addressing.
Seen or viewed with Connectivity lens – related “isms” are treated systemically together as
they are interrelated.
EXAMPLES OF OPPRESSIVEISMS (TM):
Racism
Sexism
Heterosexism
Ageism
Ableism
Classism
Colorism aka Shadeism
Culturism
Anti-Semitism
And all other oppressiveisms(TM) that meet the criteria on the personal, interpersonal,
institutional cultural/societal levels, perpetrating and perpetuating social injustice and
inequalities, adversely impacting public and social well-being.
rootoutoppressiveisms (TM) Healthy Social Disruptor Trademark:
As mentioned, #rootoutoppressivisms(TM) is used for elevating, amplifying and voicing up the
need to continue the struggle for social justice, equality and improved social and public
well-being.
Oppressiveisms (TM) Topic Related Quotes:
There can be no equality of any of the Oppressiveisms (TM) until all of the Oppressiveisms (TM)
are themselves equal. Rae Sampson-McMillan (2020)
You ought not be “ism” defined. Know your worth and positively define who you are and should
be. You have the power to do so. Rae Sampson-McMillan (2020)
No one is born with Oppressiveisms (TM) mindsets. Rae Sampson-McMillan (2022)
Oppressiveisms (TM) socialization bears an unhealthy society. Rae Sampson-McMillan (2022)
About the Author: Anti-oppressiveisms (TM), Social Justice and Public Well-being Advocate, Writer,
Oppressiveisms(TM) Word Creator and User, Entrepreneur, Licensed Clinician, Mentor. Accomplished, principled and licensed professional; many years of progressive responsibilities in the human services arena; public and private sectors; child and family welfare; crime victims; education; keen focus on human rights, social justice, public well-being, passionate about equality.
