People can describe themselves using various categories of social identity. Such aspects of social identity define a person’s position in his or her specific community. This fact explains why such aspects of identity will dictate a person’s social power. As well, the social construction of identity has the potential to affect a person both directly and indirectly (Haslanger, 2000). This essay uses three of the nine categories of social identity to present my politics of location statement.
Three Categories of My Social Identity
The first category of social identity is gender. I am a male citizen. This aspect of social identity plays a significant role in defining my position in society. I am also a Muslim. The third category focuses on issues of Race. I have an Arabic background. These aspects play a significant role in shaping my goals, abilities, and expectations in society. Since I am a Muslim, I strongly believe that people in my community should embrace the best values and focus on the concept of inclusiveness (Lalonde, Jones, & Stroink, 2008). This fact explains why I will work hard to ensure our community supports the changing needs of its people.
May Politics of Position Statement
People will always be aware of their social identities. More often than not, I am aware of my religion, race, and gender. This means that I am defined and reshaped by these aspects of social identity. That being the case, I always consider such categories whenever focusing on various issues in our society. The outstanding fact is that a person’s social identity will have significant political implications (Rich, 1984). Such implications will dictate a person’s power. People should also outline the best theories that can make society much better.
For instance, the issue of privilege gives me less power in society. For instance, the fact that I am a Muslim makes it impossible for me to engage in a number of social forums and activities. This is the case because most of the forums are embraced by other religious groups. My racial background is a major issue that affects most of my potentials and abilities. Studies have indicated that many minority groups lack good jobs and resources (Lalonde et al., 2008). These social identities, therefore, determine a person’s position or privilege in a given society.
My religious background, English skills, and Race have also affected my position in society. Individuals from minority races and religious groups are usually stereotyped. Many people discriminate and treat them negatively (Lalonde et al., 2008). I have been able to achieve most of my potentials. However, I strongly encourage my friends from different racial backgrounds to embrace appropriate social practices.
It is agreeable that racism has always been part of our culture. Many people have absorbed inappropriate attitudes that are reshaped by this malpractice (Rich, 1984). I have therefore decided to become a champion against racism. I will encourage more people to focus on the best practices that can result in inclusiveness. I always empower my friends from different races and religions to interact with each other in order to deal with the issues affecting them. My stance on racial politics is that people should come together, empower one another, and focus on the power of social inclusiveness. These practices will empower more people and produce cohesive societies.
Reference List
Haslanger, S. (2000). Gender and Race: (What) Are They: (What) Do we Want Them to Be. NOUS, 34(1), 31-55.
Lalonde, R., Jones, J., & Stroink, M. (2008). Racial Identity, Racial Attitudes, and Race Socialization among Black Canadian Parents. Canadian Journal of Behavioral Science, 40(3), 129-139.
Rich, A. (1984). Notes Toward A Politics Of Location. Web.