

Is pushing for ‘greatness’ an act of love, or a legacy of oppression?
Sep 29, 2025
Explore the complexities of parenting when striving for excellence may stem from oppressive societal norms. Delve into the metaphor of a societal ladder rooted in inequality and how it affects marginalized families. Discover shifts from pushing for success to nurturing children's inherent worth and promoting connection. The conversation highlights the need for collective empowerment over individual acclaim, while encouraging compassion and awareness in parenting choices. Join in for a fresh perspective on cultivating love and liberation in the next generation.
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The Ladder Of Success Is Built On Oppression
- Parenting often feels like pushing kids up a ladder built by oppressive systems.
- That ladder promises security but was never meant to carry all children, especially marginalized ones.
Pushing Can Be Intergenerational Survival
- Pushing kids to be exceptional often echoes survival strategies passed down through generations.
- That pressure can double for BIPOC, disabled, neurodivergent, or gender-creative children.
The Double-Edged Nature Of 'Black Excellence'
- 'Black excellence' celebrates achievement but can also enforce exceptionalism as the only path to worth.
- Tying worth to individual achievement shifts focus away from systemic inequities.