Basis history of oppression, diversity and struggle of human rights in the U.S - Coursework Example

Thirdly powerless refers to a state where there is imbalance of power whereby the oppressed group becomes the recipients of oppressive authority. The fourth form of oppression according to Young (1990, p49) is cultural imperialism, which entails the “universalization” or establishment of the culture and experiences of the dominant group in the society as the model or norm from which other groups should adopt. The cultures or traditions of the oppressed group are not indentified and are regarded as deviant because they do not conform to those of the dominant group.

Finally, violence is the fifth form of oppression and Young (1990, 54) defines it as “unprovoked physical attacks of a person and /or their properties”. Latina women and people with disabilities experience the Young’s five forms of oppression in the United States with varying degrees. Latinos have unique history of oppression in the United States society .The women of Latino descent experience oppression for being members of a minority group in the country as well as within their distinct ethnic groups (Gonzales, 2000).

Historically, people from Latin America have been source of cheap labor for the Americans, working for low wages in American industries and plantations. Although the Latinos benefit from getting their subsistence, the rewards of their labor profit the American owners. Use of Latinos cheap labor amounts to oppression according to Young (1990). Marginalization of Latinos is a prevalent occurrence especially in regions with high population of these minority groups. Marginalization is manifested by exclusion of the community in making crucial economic, political and social policies in the United States.

Consequently, Latinos suffer from higher unemployment rates, poverty and illiteracy levels than the majority group. For long period, Latinos have been