Unpacking the 15 Pillars of Supremacy Culture:
A Summary
Unpacking the 15 Pillars of Supremacy Culture: A Summary
As we have now concluded the “Unpacking the 15 Pillars of Supremacy Culture” I would like to provide you with a brief summary of what it is, and what they are and invite you to go deeper into your anti-oppression journey. It is imperative to see how each and every person, animal, and land is impacted by these pillars in order to begin the journey to liberation through decolonization and whole self-healing.
Supremacy culture, a term that encapsulates the systemic and pervasive nature of dominance in societal structures, is built upon various pillars that sustain and perpetuate inequality and oppression. These pillars, while distinct, interact in complex ways to maintain the status quo of power dynamics. In this blog, we'll summarize the 15 pillars of supremacy culture, offering a brief definition of each based on our exploration so far.
1. Perfectionism
Perfectionism in supremacy culture is the relentless pursuit of flawless performance and the intolerance of mistakes, not only setting unattainable standards but also stifling creativity and innovation by fearing failure.
2. Sense of Urgency
This pillar involves prioritizing quick results and immediate responses without acknowledging the benefits of thoughtful deliberation, often at the expense of deeper, more meaningful progress and inclusivity.
3. Defensiveness
Defensiveness is the protective stance taken to preserve power dynamics and avoid accountability. It manifests as resistance to critique, feedback, or challenges, often shutting down opportunities for growth and change.
4. Quantity Over Quality
A focus on the amount produced rather than the impact or depth of work. This pillar values metrics and outputs over transformation and meaningful engagement, often leading to burnout and superficial achievements.
5. Worship of the Written Word
This pillar elevates written communication and formal documentation as the most valid and valued form of knowledge, often marginalizing oral histories, traditions, and other forms of knowledge transmission.
6. Only One Right Way
The belief that there is a single correct approach or solution to any given problem, ignoring the diversity of perspectives and approaches that could provide more nuanced and inclusive outcomes.
7. Paternalism
Paternalism involves decision-making by those in power without input from those affected by the decisions, assuming a "father-knows-best" attitude that undermines agency and participation.
8. Either/Or Thinking
Reducing complex issues to binary choices, this pillar oversimplifies the richness of possibilities and perspectives, creating false dichotomies and fueling division.
9. Power Hoarding
The tendency to keep power concentrated in the hands of a few, resisting efforts to distribute power more equitably and to foster shared leadership and decision-making.
10. Fear of Open Conflict
This pillar involves avoiding conflict and uncomfortable conversations in favor of maintaining a façade of harmony, often at the cost of addressing and resolving underlying issues.
11. Individualism
The emphasis on personal success and independence often neglects the importance of community, collective well-being, and interdependence.
12. Progress is Bigger, More
Equating growth and success with expansion and accumulation, this pillar overlooks the value of sustainability, balance, and the quality of outcomes.
13. Objectivity
The myth of unbiased perspectives, which denies the role of subjective experiences in shaping understanding, often dismisses emotional and experiential knowledge as invalid.
14. Right to Comfort
Prioritizing personal comfort and avoiding discomfort, especially in conversations about race, equity, and justice, thereby hindering progress and deep understanding.
15. I’m the Only One
Believing that one is the sole person capable of performing tasks or having the necessary knowledge, undermining collaborative efforts and collective wisdom.
Conclusion
Understanding the 15 pillars of supremacy culture is crucial for anyone committed to dismantling oppressive systems and fostering a more equitable society. By recognizing and challenging these pillars in our daily lives, workplaces, and communities, we can contribute to the creation of spaces that value diversity, equity, and inclusion. As we continue to explore and deconstruct these pillars, let's commit to the ongoing work of decolonization, healing, and building inclusive communities. By engaging with these concepts, we can all play a part in reimagining and reshaping our world into one that uplifts and values every individual.
If you would like a printable of these pillars for quick reference click here.
With love and care,
Desireé B Stephens
Educator | Counselor | Community Builder