Dominant & Counter Narratives Copy

Dominant Narratives

Dominant narratives are those stories we tell ourselves, learn or share with others – whether consciously or unconsciously – that uphold existing power dynamics.  Sometimes called dominant cultural narratives, are frequently repeated stories shared in society through various social and cultural institutions, they are generally characterized as coming from or being supported by privileged or powerful groups. They celebrate or absolve groups who already hold power or demonize or blame those who are marginalized. In our canvas, we can associate dominant narratives with negative ones because most of them, structurally and systematically, undermine access to human rights for the global majority. Dominant narratives are also linked to historical processes.

An example of a dominant narrative that prevails until now is racism. Which is the core belief that a race is superior or inferior to one another. ​

Counter Narratives

A counternarrative emerges from the perspectives of historically marginalized groups. The term “counter” inherently suggests resistance to traditional dominance. Unlike the idea that history is singular, counternarratives offer a pluriperspective, ushering in a paradigm shift in the way we understand narratives and meaning-making.

In this context, every experience constitutes a valuable reality, and all forms of knowledge should have equal standing in shaping the decision-making processes of the world’s future. Through the use of this perspective, we can cultivate alternative viewpoints distinct from the dominant narratives of today.

This contribution adds to the rich and intricate emotional landscape that humans possess, allowing us to use narratives authentically to depict our multiple realities. The essence of a counternarrative lies in challenging prevailing narratives, empowering marginalized voices, and fostering a more inclusive understanding of our shared human experiences.​

Social Change is about identifying the damaging dominant narratives that undermine human rights and transforming them into enriching, more inclusive visions of the world.

Here are some examples of dominant narratives that undermine human rights

• Wealth Equals Worth: This narrative suggests that a person’s value is solely determined by their financial success. It can lead to judgments and mistreatment based on economic status.​
• Gender Roles: Traditional gender roles enforce the idea that certain behaviours and occupations are suitable for specific genders. This can limit opportunities and perpetuate inequality.​
• Racial Stereotypes: Stereotypes based on race can lead to discrimination and prejudice, assuming certain characteristics or behaviours based on a person’s racial background.​
• Beauty Standards: Narratives around beauty often promote specific physical attributes as ideal, contributing to body shaming and low self-esteem for those who don’t fit these narrow standards.​
• Success Means Academic Achievement: This narrative implies that success is solely defined by academic accomplishments, neglecting other forms of intelligence and achievement.​

Key Characteristics​

Dominant harmful narratives often thrive on simplicity. Here’s their key to success: they take a complex problem, simplify its causes and propose straightforward solutions.

Take the stigma towards Mexican migrants, for example. The actual issue is intricate—the socioeconomic challenges in the U.S. under capitalism result in job scarcity, and limited access to healthcare, and education.

However, the prevailing anti-immigration narrative offers a simple solution: blame the migrants, kick them out, and everything will be resolved. It’s this oversimplification of the problem, the actors involved, and the proposed solution that constitutes the “single” harmful strategy of such narratives.​

Sources:

Link to “Unpacking the conversations that matter” by The Inclusion Solution

Link to “Dominant Narratives Encyclopedia” by Academic Accelerator