What is the relationship between economic marginalization and identity suppression in conservative societies?
Economic marginalization refers to the process by which individuals or groups are excluded from mainstream economic activities and opportunities, such as employment, education, and financial services, often due to social or cultural factors like race, gender, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Identity suppression, on the other hand, involves the practice of concealing one's true self for fear of social stigma, discrimination, violence, or punishment, especially related to gender, sexuality, and religion. Both these phenomena have been observed in many conservative societies around the world, where traditional values and norms tend to dominate social structures, including economics and politics. In this essay, I will explore how the intersection of economic marginalization and identity suppression impacts people living in conservative societies.
One example of a society where both economic marginalization and identity suppression are prevalent is Iran. According to the World Bank, Iran's unemployment rate has consistently been higher than the global average since 2016, affecting women, youth, and religious minorities more significantly. Women in Iran face considerable barriers to entering the workforce due to discriminatory laws and practices, while youth struggle with high rates of unemployment despite being well-educated and skilled. Religious minorities also suffer from job discrimination, particularly when it comes to government jobs. At the same time, homosexuality is illegal in Iran and can result in severe penalties, leading LGBTQ+ individuals to live secret lives, avoid dating apps, and hide their identities even from friends and family members. Some have fled to neighboring countries to escape persecution, leaving behind loved ones and communities that may no longer accept them.
Another example is India, which ranks among the top ten most unequal countries globally regarding income distribution. Social groups such as Dalits, Adivasis, and Muslims experience systemic exclusion from education, employment, and financial services, further exacerbated by casteism and Islamophobia. Despite having a progressive constitution and liberal policies, these groups often must resort to informal or illegal sectors like beggary, scavenging, and manual labor to survive, making them vulnerable to exploitation and violence. At the same time, LGBTQ+ Indians face widespread stigma and criminalization under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, leading many to deny their sexual orientation and avoid public spaces where they could be outed. For some, this means living double lives between conservative families and communities and more open cities and social circles.
Consider Nigeria, where inequality has increased in recent years due to a recession caused by falling oil prices and rising inflation. The country's high unemployment rate disproportionately affects young people, especially those who do not fit into the dominant Christian-Muslim paradigm. In addition, religious intolerance towards non-Christian and non-Muslim minorities has led to violence and displacement, forcing many individuals to hide their beliefs for fear of being targeted by extremists. Gender norms also play a role, with women facing discrimination in both education and the workforce, despite laws promoting equal pay and opportunities.
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Nigeria, leading to arrests, imprisonments, and even death sentences. As a result, many LGBTQ+ Nigerians live in secret, fearing discovery and persecution from family members, neighbors, and the authorities.
Economic marginalization and identity suppression can go hand in hand in conservative societies, creating complex and intersecting challenges that impact individuals and groups differently. To address these issues, governments must invest in inclusive policies and programs that promote equality and opportunity for all citizens, regardless of gender, sexuality, religion, or other factors.
Community organizations and activist groups can provide safe spaces for individuals to explore their identities and seek support without fear of judgement or reprisal.
Individual efforts like self-acceptance, community building, and education can help break down barriers and build bridges between diverse communities.
What is the relationship between economic marginalization and identity suppression in conservative societies?
The relationship between economic marginalization and identity suppression in conservative societies can be seen as complex. On one hand, individuals with lower socioeconomic status may feel pressure to conform to traditional gender roles and norms in order to gain acceptance and belonging within their communities. This can lead to suppressing any nonconforming identities, such as LGBTQ+ identities or feminist beliefs.