The Invisible Chains of Oppression: Breaking Free Through Awareness

Why Do the Oppressed Defend Their Oppressors?

Systems of power are often invisible yet deeply influential. They thrive on maintaining the status quo, where wealth and dominance remain concentrated at the top. These systems aren’t neutral—they’re designed to perpetuate inequality, keeping many people in a cycle of struggle while a select few prosper.

What’s perplexing is how these systems are often defended by the very people they oppress. Why does this happen?

The answer lies in the myths and structures that oppressors create. By keeping education underfunded, wages stagnant, housing unaffordable, and protections for health and safety minimal, these systems foster a sense of inevitability. They discourage questioning and reinforce the belief that things cannot—and should not—change.

The Power of Myths

The oppressed are often conditioned to believe in the invulnerability and superiority of the oppressors. Narratives like “wealth trickles down” or “hard work alone leads to success” mask the reality of systemic inequality. These myths create a sense of loyalty to the very structures that hinder progress, leading people to resist change out of fear, confusion, or a misplaced sense of hope.

Critical Consciousness as a Solution

At the heart of this issue is the lack of what Brazilian educator Paulo Freire called critical consciousness—the ability to perceive and challenge the systems of oppression. Without this awareness, the oppressed remain trapped, blaming themselves or others for their struggles instead of questioning the broader structures at play.

By awakening critical thinking, we can break through the illusions. We can begin to see that the fight isn’t against each other—it’s against a system that thrives on division and disempowerment.

A Path Toward Empowerment

Real change begins when we reject the myths and embrace the possibility of a different future. This isn’t about blame—it’s about clarity and courage. By fostering dialogue, supporting equitable policies, and prioritizing education, we can dismantle the structures that oppress and build systems rooted in fairness, opportunity, and shared prosperity.

The Call to Action

The systems that oppress us are not invincible. Their strength lies in our division, in our acceptance of the status quo, and in our unwillingness to question what we’re told. But we have the power to change that narrative.

When we think critically, act collectively, and refuse to let fear dictate our decisions, we can create a future where fairness, dignity, and opportunity are not just ideals but realities. The choice is ours to make—let’s choose empowerment.