Professor Jacqueline Scott Speaks to Junior Civic Lab

Parker parent, Loyola University Chicago Associate Professor of Philosophy and Department Chair Jacqueline Scott, PhD returned to speak with juniors about the concept of “meta-oppression,” the feeling that comes from being oppressed—a weariness from a lack of change. The juniors connected the concept with their work in U.S. History and the legacy of Reconstruction, as well as in their Civic Lab groups that work with marginalized communities.

“The history of marginalized communities due to slavery, violence, legalized segregation and immigration laws is part of this unit of study,” US History teacher Andrew Bigelow explained, “and so this helps us understand the impact oppression has on the oppressed.”

Dr. Scott explained the difference between people’s social identities—how society views individuals through race, class, gender, etc.—and lived identities—how people view themselves. Often, these two ideas can be at odds, and the pressures of society can lead to feelings of shame and a sense of “homelessness,” where someone belongs if they don’t fit society’s narrative of who they should be. This despair can add to feelings of “meta-oppression” and questioning self-worth. To push back and interrupt “meta-oppression,” Scott emphasized the importance of seeing and affirming others for their lived identities to help align them with their social identities. Doing so leads toward more supported and diverse identities and expands people’s social imaginations, the options for the ways people form their lives. Forming communities where people can proudly be their authentic selves is vital in sustaining a healthier society.

Bigelow said this visit impacts the students’ work in class and in Civic Lab. “I love it when kids make reference to her talk when we dive into immigration or the legacy of Reconstruction, the war on drugs and the modern-day social reformers.”

Parker is grateful to Dr. Scott for sharing her expertise with the junior class.

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