Uncovering Blindspots in Hierarchical Oppression.

This is (Part 9) of the publication "Black Vegans' Vision Of Total Liberation Poised To Shape Our Future."

The pursuit of justice and equality often bifurcates into two pathways: one seeks to elevate within existing hierarchies, while the other strives to dissolve these oppressive systems altogether. Both paths have their merits, but it's essential to understand the overarching implications of each. Crucially, blindspots in our understanding, especially concerning the intersectionality of animal oppression with other forms of subjugation, can inadvertently hamper a movement's progress. Recognizing and addressing these blindspots not only strengthens the logical foundation of the movement but also elevates its potential for transformative change. At its core, the quest for animal liberation exemplifies this expansive, holistic vision — advocating for dismantling hierarchies that perpetuate oppression rather than merely aspiring to elevate one's position. While it is certainly okay to focus your passion and work within a single movement, doing so without a broader understanding of intersectionality is a blindspot that unwittingly reinforces the cycles of oppression we seek to break.

However, it's also essential to tread gently when discussing the various movements and initiatives that might still need to recognize the intertwined nature of their goals with those of animal rights, aiming to educate further and increase our collective knowledge and understanding. While their intentions are noble, there's a risk of inadvertently fortifying hierarchies by seeking elevation within them instead of targeting the roots of these oppressive structures.

In an interview with Carrie Freeman, Aph-Ko beautifully encapsulates this nuance: "We need to break down these borders and really re-familiarize ourselves with the territory of oppression because our theory isn't matching the landscape." She also emphasizes "if someone does something differently because they're situated differently in society and they're using their own perspective and lens to kind of talk about animals that's fine too" while encouraging others in their movements to "incorporate the idea of the animal within your own logic because you're going to produce beautiful insights...

Yvette Backer further elucidates the pitfalls of internalizing hierarchies through a historical lens. She draws parallels between colonialist oppressions and those faced by animals. The cycle is evident: the oppressive tactics first levied on animals found their way into the subjugation of various human groups. Thus, our modern challenges with racism, colonialism, and other systemic injustices have their roots in the original sin of speciesism.

In episode 9 of the Green Carpet Interviews, Backer further reflects on the danger of solely seeking a more favorable position within an oppressive hierarchy:

In essence, the fight for justice isn't a zero-sum game where gains in one arena mean losses in another. Instead, it's a harmonious push where each movement, recognizing its interdependence with others, can amplify the collective pursuit of total liberation. True justice isn't about elevating within the confines of oppressive hierarchies but dismantling them altogether, thereby granting freedom to all, irrespective of species, race, gender, orientation, or any other divisive marker.

Continue Reading The Full Publication:  "Black Vegans' Vision Of Total Liberation Poised To Shape Our Future."

This is (Part 9) of the above series - All posts in the series can be read here: Black Vegan Blog Series