Change Quote by Audre Lorde
“In order to perpetuate itself, every oppression must corrupt or distort those various sources of power within the culture of the oppressed that can provide energy for change.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Transformation of Self, 1984
Oppression sustains itself by corrupting the cultural power sources of the oppressed, which could otherwise fuel change.
In simple terms: Oppression twists the tools of change.
Key Takeaway
Guard cultural resources.
Themes
social justice
power
oppression
culture
change
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
activist
philosophical
When to use this quote
- activism
- community organizing
- policy making
- education
Key Concepts
hegemony
agency
resistance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can oppressed communities protect their cultural power?
- What strategies prevent corruption of change agents?
A Different Perspective
Oppressed groups may also internalize oppression, complicating resistance.
