respectability politics

[ ri-spek-tuh-bil-i-tee pol-i-tiks ]

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

1. a set of beliefs holding that conformity to prescribed mainstream standards of appearance and behavior will protect a person who is part of a marginalized group, especially a Black person, from prejudices and systemic injustices: Respectability politics place blame on groups already hindered by discrimination.

   Black respectability politics embraces the illusion of a level economic playing field.

   Respectability politics place blame on groups already hindered by discrimination.

Word History and Origins

Origin of respectability politics¹

First recorded in 1995–2000