Subalternities and asymmetrical power dynamics in Mexico

Abstract

The concept of subalternity extends beyond a mere marginal social position; it describes a political condition where certain groups lack power, voice, and representation. These collectives are dominated by established ideologies and institutions, with their narratives historically silenced. However, this condition doesn't nullify their agency; on the contrary, it fuels resistance and disobedience, key actions to assert their dignity and rights.
We'll analyze how power is reproduced through structural mechanisms present even in education, and how certain systems prevent the voices of subordinate groups from being genuinely heard, beyond just the absence of speech. It's crucial to recognize the diverse categories of exclusion that generate these situations, from social class to gender or ethnicity. In this context, self-representation emerges as a powerful tool for empowerment, allowing these groups to construct and express their own identities and narratives. Finally, we'll explore concrete examples in Mexico, such as indigenous peoples, women, and the working class, to illustrate the complex dynamics of subalternity and their ongoing fight for visibility and justice.