The Woke Paradox

By Herman M. Lagon 

In today’s rapidly changing world, “wokeness” often dominates discussions around social justice. While the movement aims to promote social justice and human rights, it can sometimes deepen divides and alienate people. Critics like David Brooks argue that the issue often lies in how wokeness is applied rather than the causes it supports. Understanding these criticisms is essential to avoid falling into the trap of using wokeness in ways that might backfire anew.

Consider the transgender rights movement. The push for transgender acceptance is crucial, but sometimes, the conversation is shut down before it starts, primarily when issues on shared spaces, fair competition, and transition anxiety are raised. Labeling these concerns as transphobic without engaging in dialogue has alienated potential allies. Similarly, the debate around the SOGIE Bill often paints any opposition as bigotry or narrow-mindedness, missing opportunities for meaningful discussion and compromise in matters such as legal overreach and balancing the rights of others. This approach risks losing the support of those who might otherwise be sympathetic.

Wokeness also impacts how we view socio-cultural traditions. In a rush to modernize, long-held customs, like the Santacruzan, Translacion, religious piety, respect for the elders, or traditions that seemingly border on cultural appropriation, gender roles, dress codes, or patriarchy, are criticized for being repressive, dogmatic, or objectifying, without considering their more profound religious or socio-cultural context and significance. This can lead to superficial critiques that overlook the depth of these traditions to the communities that uphold them.

In the workplace, wokeness can have unintended consequences. Diversity initiatives, though well-intentioned, can sometimes emphasize representation over merit, leading to tokenism and a less effective team. True inclusivity should prioritize skills, talent, and the right fit for the role, rather than simply ticking diversity boxes. When inclusivity efforts seem forced or superficial, they create a fragile sense of unity that easily falls apart under pressure.

Being woke can sometimes result in overprotection, as parents shield their kids from difficulties in real life in an effort to instill social awareness in them. Despite its good intentions, this method may keep children from growing the resilience necessary to deal with the challenges of life. Rather than growing from setbacks, they might pass up chances to interact with diverse viewpoints, exercise critical thought, and develop empathy. This risks creating a generation that is socially conscious but less equipped to handle adversity.

Wokeness has also impacted academic freedom. Once champions of free speech, schools can sometimes become echo chambers where only one viewpoint is accepted, suppressing dissenting ideas and stifling intellectual growth. For instance, students or faculty who challenge prevailing woke narratives on topics like gender identity, race, or cultural appropriation may face backlash, social ostracization, or even disciplinary action. This environment discourages open debate and critical inquiry, essential to academic rigor. The goal of education should be to create an environment where different viewpoints are valued and discussed. This will help students build robust critical thinking abilities and have meaningful conversations about complex topics.

The emphasis on political correctness, especially in comedy and satire, often stifles free expression. Comic artists and social commentators struggle to navigate the boundaries of acceptability, leading to suppressed discussions essential for progress. Overzealous sensitivity can hinder the conversations necessary for clarity, sincerity, and unity in a culturally diverse society like ours.

Social media further complicates public debate, with platforms like Twitter and Facebook becoming battlegrounds for woke activism. Pursuing likes, shares, and retweets often overshadows genuine efforts to communicate effectively and effect change, drowning out more thoughtful discussions.

Finally, there is a sense of elitism and exclusivity associated with wokeness, where those who do not align with progressive views are seen as ignorant, outcast, or inferior. This can be particularly off-putting in societies like ours, where tradition, culture, and family values are deeply embedded alongside the stark realities of poverty, corruption, and impunity. As we have learned from the 2022 elections, dismissing these life facts risks alienating the people we aim to support or win over.

Ultimately, the conversation about wokeness is not about rejecting justice or equality but ensuring that the methods used do not undermine these goals. If applied without care, wokeness can alienate potential allies and deepen divides. The key is to balance the drive for progress with respect for different viewpoints and cultural traditions. Genuine social change takes a lot of patience; it comes from fostering open dialogue, understanding, and finding common ground. By adopting this more nuanced approach or mindset, we can create a more inclusive society that values progress and the diversity of thought necessary for meaningful change.

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Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.