Diversity instead of prejudice - How social factors shape perception

In order to understand the importance of positionality in anti-discrimination, we must first turn to the origins of this concept and its epistemological foundations. The concept of positionality was originally developed in the humanities and social sciences and was particularly applied in feminist and postcolonial theories. The concept is deeply rooted in the assumptions that knowledge is situational and that different groups have different 'standpoints' or 'positions' that shape their perspectives and experiences.

Accordingly, our positionality is a constellation of social and personal factors that determine our view of the world and our place in it. These factors can include our gender, our ethnicity, our socio-economic situation, our education and many other aspects. Each of these factors contributes to the construction of our unique 'point of view' and determines how we interpret the world and how we are interpreted by it.

In the context of anti-discrimination, positionality plays a crucial role. It allows us to understand the place we are in and how that place shapes our perspective on equality and inequality. This understanding can help us to fight discrimination in all its forms more effectively.

Take your own positionality, for example. Where do you stand? Do you belong to a privileged group or a marginalized one? Are you aware of the privileges you enjoy because of your position? Or do you experience daily obstacles and challenges that others do not have to overcome? Your awareness of this positionality and your willingness to question it is the first step on the path to anti-discrimination.

However, positionality not only allows us to recognize and question our own position. It also challenges us to consider and appreciate the positions of others. It encourages us to change our perspective, to put ourselves in the shoes of others and to recognize their experiences. This change of perspective is the second step on the path to anti-discrimination. It allows us to break down prejudices, promote empathy and build bridges of understanding.

Positionality means not only looking at the world from someone else's perspective, but also understanding that other people's experiences are just as valid and important as our own. It means recognizing the many different types of discrimination that people can experience because of their positionality and fighting the structural injustices that cause this discrimination.

Positionality is therefore more than just a concept or an academic term. It is a tool that helps us understand the complex reality of discrimination and develop effective strategies to combat it. It is a guide that accompanies us on our journey towards equality and supports us in creating a more inclusive and equitable society. In other words, positionality is not only a way to understand the world, but also to change it.

It is our responsibility to continuously confront our own prejudices, privileges and actions. Even if reflection alone is not enough, it is an essential building block for using positionality as a tool to act in an anti-discriminatory way. So I would like to conclude this time with some food for thought.

Question your own privileges: Take time to recognize and reflect on your own privileges. Ask yourself what advantages you enjoy due to your social position and how this affects your perceptions, actions and opportunities.

Engage with critical literature and media: Find out about critical theories and literature that deal with social justice, discrimination and power relations. Read books, articles and watch films or documentaries that shed light on different perspectives and positions.

Reflect on your actions: Regularly take time to reflect on your own actions and decisions. Ask yourself how your positionality influences your interactions with others and whether you may be exhibiting unconscious bias or discriminatory behaviour.