D. Gaps of Power Perspective
Assessing Gaps of Perspective, we consider how our power perspective informs the proposed action. We often develop strategies for social change unconsciously informed by our power perspective, and we may not realize that others do not enjoy the same power, privilege, and position. For example, if we choose to use a peaceful protest, we assume that others, whose rights may be the subject of the protest, will be comfortable demonstrating and exercising the right to peaceful protest in this manner. But for some whose experience with the law reflects inconsistent or unequal justice, there may be less security in exercising one’s rights. The exclusion of segments of interested parties reduces the inclusiveness of the action and may undermine the entire effort. So, we must endeavor to consider how our experience of power, privilege, and position shape what we do, and we must reflect upon how we can use our power, privilege and position most effectively to share our power.
Assessing Gaps of Perspective, we consider how our power perspective informs the proposed action. We often develop strategies for social change unconsciously informed by our power perspective, and we may not realize that others do not enjoy the same power, privilege, and position. For example, if we choose to use a peaceful protest, we assume that others, whose rights may be the subject of the protest, will be comfortable demonstrating and exercising the right to peaceful protest in this manner. But for some whose experience with the law reflects inconsistent or unequal justice, there may be less security in exercising one’s rights. The exclusion of segments of interested parties reduces the inclusiveness of the action and may undermine the entire effort. So, we must endeavor to consider how our experience of power, privilege, and position shape what we do, and we must reflect upon how we can use our power, privilege and position most effectively to share our power.
Reflections and comments welcome.