Mastering Modern Social Dynamics: A Handbook of Modern Social Movements' Vocabulary
Advocates for marginalized communities’ support
The Traditionalists
This term refers to individuals who uphold traditional beliefs and values, typically resisting changes driven by progress.
BIPOC
An abbreviation for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, emphasizing the challenges faced by non-white communities.
Black Lives Matter (BLM)
A global crusade combating racial violence and championing the rights of the Black community.
Blackface
A practice by which white individuals darken their skin to mimic African heritage, often perpetuating offensive stereotypes.
Public Ostracism and Shaming
The social phenomenon where individuals are publicly shamed and ostracized due to allegations of harmful or inappropriate conduct.
Cisgender
An individual whose gender identity matches their birth-assigned sex.
White Self-Examination
White individuals critically reexamining and challenging their own privilege within society.
Former Identity
The original name given to a transgender individual, sometimes used disrespectfully or purposefully neglecting their identity.
Knowledge and Institution Liberation
The process of releasing knowledge and institutions from oppressive, Eurocentric perspectives.
Encouraging Diversity
Promoting representation and inclusion for those who do not belong to the dominant majority.
Europe-centric Worldview
A perspective dominated by European thoughts and values, frequently perceived as monopolizing global knowledge and culture.
FLINTA
An acronym for female, lesbian, intersex, non-binary, transgender, and asexual individuals.
Political Approach
Focussing on the needs and experiences of specific groups based on shared identities.
Institutionalized Discrimination
Systemic bias perpetuated by state and societal institutions, disproportionately impacting marginalized communities.
Middle-Class White Female Stereotype
A derogatory term used to describe middle-class, white women who assert their authority and regulate others’ actions.
Cultural Imitation
Adopting elements, such as hairstyles, music, and clothing, from marginalized groups, without acknowledging and respecting the original cultural context.
LGBTQ+ Community Members
A collective representation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual individuals.
Gender-Neutral Pronouns
Referring to pronouns used to honor an individual's identity, regardless of being male or female.
Safe Locales
Creating a secure environment where individuals belonging to marginalized groups feel safe and shielded from discrimination.
Trans-exclusionary Radical Feminist Stereotype
A derogatory term for feminists who argue against transgender women's biological femininity.
Tokenistic Representation
A stereotypical portrayal of marginalized groups, intended to promote or maintain the appearance of inclusivity.
Content Warning
An advisory alert, warning individuals of potentially distressing or sensitive content, especially concerning marginalized communities.
Woke Individuals
Individuals who self-identify as aware of and actively engage in addressing social injustices and discrimination.
Background Information
Recent years have witnessed a global focus on several progressive movements, including those advocating for racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and tackling institutionalized racism. This revised handbook provides an overview of key terms and concepts related to these issues, shedding light on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and their supporters.
Various societies around the world encounter complex issues surrounding racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and the eradication of systemic discrimination. Although progress has been made, these movements face myriad obstacles, from political opposition to everyday prejudices.
Understanding the terminology and concepts associated with these issues is crucial for fostering inclusiveness and working towards positive social change. Engaging with these conversations can also help build empathy, develop stronger communities, and lead to a more equitable society for all individuals.
References
- "Cancel Culture.” Encyclopedia Britannica, July 29, 2021,
- Dehgan, Arash. “Cancel culture: the millennial misnomer.” The Telegraph, July 7, 2021,
- “What is Cancel Culture?” Vox, July 7, 2021,
