Oppressors always expect the oppressed to extend to them the understanding so lacking in themselves

Oppressors always expect the oppressed to extend to them the understanding so lacking in themselves

Audre Lorde, a renowned writer, feminist, and civil rights activist, often spoke about the dynamics of power and oppression in society. One of her most famous quotes, "Oppressors always expect the oppressed to extend to them the understanding so lacking in themselves," perfectly encapsulates the insidious nature of oppression and the burden it places on those who are marginalized.

In many cases, oppressors are blind to their own privilege and the ways in which they benefit from systems of oppression. They often expect the oppressed to forgive, understand, and even empathize with them, despite the harm and injustice they have caused. This expectation is rooted in a sense of entitlement and a lack of accountability for their actions.

Lorde's words highlight the emotional labor that is often placed on the oppressed to educate, enlighten, and forgive their oppressors. This burden can be exhausting and dehumanizing, as it requires the oppressed to constantly navigate and negotiate their own pain and trauma in order to make the oppressor feel more comfortable.

Furthermore, Lorde's quote speaks to the inherent hypocrisy of oppressors who demand understanding and forgiveness from those they have harmed, while failing to acknowledge or address their own complicity in perpetuating systems of oppression. This lack of self-awareness and accountability only serves to perpetuate cycles of harm and injustice, further marginalizing and disempowering those who are already vulnerable.