Understanding Subalternity and Its Significance in Society

Subalterns are people or groups who are marginalized, oppressed, and excluded from power and decision-making in society. The term "subaltern" was coined by the Italian Marxist Antonio Gramsci to describe the peasants and working class in capitalist societies who are not part of the ruling class and do not have the power to shape society's institutions and policies.

In Gramsci's theory, subalterns are not just passive recipients of dominant ideology but also active participants in the creation and dissemination of counter-hegemonic ideas and practices that challenge the dominant order. Subalternity is a position of marginalization and exclusion, but it is also a site of resistance and struggle for social change.

The concept of subalternity has been applied to various groups and contexts, including women, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, indigenous peoples, and others who are marginalized and excluded from mainstream society. It highlights the need to listen to and amplify the voices of those who are traditionally silenced or ignored in dominant discourse, and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.