The social representations of the discrimination of twelve social organizations (vulnerable groups) of the state of Colima

Needs and proposals for action

Abstract

A discourse analysis on discrimination of twelve social organizations, identified as vulnerable groups in the state of Colima, Mexico, is presented. The discourses were produced at the First Citizens Forum of Vulnerable Groups in Colima. The analysis offers a set of social representations on three axes of interest: what is discrimination, its origins, as well as the needs and action proposals of organizations to eradicate discrimination. We find that discrimination is conceived in different ways and it is inherent to the human condition, that as a social problem it is multifactorial, and that education in its different modalities and areas is a central pillar to sensitize and re-educate people under the principle of respect for diversity, the right to inclusion and respect for fundamental rights. We also reflect on the common meaning of the “vulnerability” with which these groups are usually labeled.