respectability politics

American  

[ri-spek-tuh-bil-i-tee pol-i-tiks] / rɪˌspɛk təˈbɪl ɪ ti ˌpɒl ɪ tɪks /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of respectability politics

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

Some believe the erasure of Black LGBTQ+ leaders stems from respectability politics, a strategy in some marginalized communities of ostracizing or punishing members who don’t assimilate into the dominant culture.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 12, 2023

Barney grew up in a prosperous Black neighborhood in Philadelphia, and from an early age was steeped in the respectability politics of the era.

From Slate • Sep. 11, 2023

But for Justin J. Pearson to be successful at Bowdoin College, he learned how to deal with respectability politics.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2023

She remembers being struck by Mandela’s “hectoring, patronizing turn” toward a kind of respectability politics.

From New York Times • Jul. 27, 2022

“I think it might fall sometimes into respectability politics — ‘Do your research beforehand,’ ‘Dress a certain way,’ ‘Speak in a certain manner.’

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2022