Woke

What does ‘Woke’ mean?

The term “woke” originated in African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has evolved to describe an awareness of social injustices, particularly racial and gender inequality. While originally a positive term promoting awareness and action, its meaning has been highly contested and politicized. In some contexts, it refers to individuals or groups actively fighting against systemic oppression, advocating for social justice, and promoting inclusive policies. Conversely, it’s often used derisively by critics to label progressive or leftist ideologies as overly sensitive, politically correct, or even divisive. The usage depends heavily on the speaker’s political alignment and intended audience.

Q&A

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