Periagoge
Concept
1 min read

The Silencing as Harm

Recognition that suppressing voice, questions, and perspectives causes deep injustice, central to Sor Juana's persecution and applicable to understanding harm beyond physical injury.

Juana
Why It Matters

Sor Juana was punished for her intellectual boldness and refusal to accept imposed silence—a harm that left no visible marks but wounded her agency and identity. This concept expands the definition of harm to include epistemic injustice: the suppression of knowledge, voice, and the right to be heard. In punitive systems, harm is often narrowly defined as criminal acts, ignoring systemic silencing. Restorative approaches informed by Sor Juana's experience must address how victims are often not believed, centered, or allowed to speak their truth. Justice requires creating conditions where silenced voices are restored to speech and power. This means restorative circles must explicitly counter the tendency to marginalize those harmed, ensuring their knowledge and perspective shape the healing process. True restoration includes restoring voice itself.

Helpful guides
Juana
Identity & Justice
Peri
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