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Woke meaning: What is behind the term?

We hear “woke” a lot. It means to stand up for social justice and against discrimination. Originally from the African-American language, “woke” is now a multi-layered word.

The “woke” movement wants to fight injustice. It calls on us to be vigilant against racism and sexism. But “woke” is also controversial and is often misunderstood.

The Duden dictionary says “woke” means “very politically alert and active against discrimination”. This definition shows what “woke” is. But it does not address the discussions that “woke” triggers.

From the civil rights movement to social media, “woke” has come a long way.

Key findings

  • Woke comes from African-American English
  • The term stands for awareness of social injustice
  • Wokeness gained popularity through Black Lives Matter
  • The term is often used in the context of activism
  • Woke can also be used critically or pejoratively

Origin and history of the term woke

The term “woke” comes from African-American history. It originated in the 1930s. At the time, it was a symbol of political awareness and social justice.

Origin in African-American culture

1938 was the first time “woke” was used. Huddie Ledbetter sang about the Scottsboro Boys in a song. At the time, “woke” meant awareness of racism and injustice.

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Black Lives Matter and the spread of the term

From 2013, “woke” became better known through Black Lives Matter. Social media helped to spread the term. The hashtag #staywoke became a symbol against police violence and racism.

Development into a social phenomenon

Today, “woke” means many social issues. The civil rights movement has shaped the term. It now also encompasses sexism, climate change and other inequalities. In 2017, “woke” was added to the Oxford English Dictionary, demonstrating its importance.

Year Event
1938 First documented use in a song
1962 Mentioned in an article by William Melvin Kelley
2013 Dissemination through Black Lives Matter movement
2017 Inclusion in the Oxford English Dictionary

Woke meaning in the current context

The term “woke” has become very controversial in recent years. It is at the center of many social debates. It is often associated with identity politics.

Political and social dimension

In politics, “woke” is often used as a fighting term. Conservative circles see it as pejorative and use it to criticize progressive ideas. They fear a “woke madness” that threatens traditional values.

In Germany, the CDU/CSU uses the term negatively. They complain that the “cultural heritage” is under threat.

Woke meaning culture war

Critical examination of the term

The debate about “woke” is part of a major culture war. Critics see the “woke movement” as a threat to freedom of expression. They fear a new moralism.

There is also criticism on the left. They criticize an aggressive, performative “woke-ness”. This has led to a decline in self-description as “woke”.

Woke as part of identity politics

The concept of “woke” is closely linked to identity politics. It is about raising awareness of social injustices and campaigning against discrimination. The focus is on issues such as racism, LGBTQ+ rights and economic inequality.

Political correctness plays a central role in this.

Aspect Positive view Critical view
Significance Awareness of injustice Exaggerated political correctness
Goal Social justice Restriction of freedom of expression
Perception Progressive and inclusive Aggressive and divisive
Impact Social change Cancel Culture

Conclusion

The term “woke” has come a long way. It began in the 1930s in the African-American community. It became more widely known through movements such as Black Lives Matter.

Today, “woke” means a greater awareness of problems such as racism and sexism. It shows how important it is to talk about social grievances.

The debate about “woke” shows a major social change. Some see it as an opportunity for important social issues. Others use it as a political tool.

The future of “woke” is uncertain. But the issues behind it remain important. It is crucial to talk openly about these issues. This is how “woke” can really bring about change.

FAQ

What does the term “woke” mean?

“Woke” comes from African-American English. It means “alert” or “woke”. It stands for an awareness of social injustice and discrimination. The dictionary says “woke” means “very politically awake and active against discrimination”.

Where does the term “woke” come from?

“Woke” was first used in 1938 in a song by Huddie Ledbetter. It was about the Scottsboro Boys. From 2014 it became popular through Black Lives Matter. It spread via social media with #staywoke.

How did the meaning of “woke” evolve?

In the past, “woke” meant awareness of racism in the African-American community. Today, it means awareness of various forms of oppression. This includes progressive politics and identity politics.

Why is the term “woke” controversial?

“Woke” is controversial. Conservatives and right-wingers often see it as pejorative. They warn of “woke madness”. They fear that it threatens traditional values.Critics see the “woke movement” as a threat to freedom of expression. They fear a new moralism.

How is “woke” perceived in different countries?

In the USA, “woke” is often associated with anti-Americanism and socialism. There are similar debates in Germany and France. Opinions depend on the political and cultural context.In general, “woke” reflects important social debates. It is about equality, discrimination and social justice.

Are there alternatives to the term “woke”?

The self-description as “woke” is used less. People prefer to use terms like “social justice”. This shows the same concerns, without the controversy of “woke”.

Simon Lüthje

I am co-founder of this blog and am very interested in everything that has to do with technology, but I also like to play games. I was born in Hamburg, but now I live in Bad Segeberg.

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