How ‘Woke’ Went From an Expression in Black culture to a Conservative Criticism

October 3, 2025

The term "woke," which originated in African American communities as a call for awareness about racial injustice, has evolved dramatically in American discourse. Beginning with Marcus Garvey in 1923 and resurfacing in the 2014 Black Lives Matter movement, the expression initially signified enlightenment about racism and injustice. In recent years, the term has become politically polarizing, with Republicans like President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth condemning "woke" culture in institutions, while some progressives attempt to reclaim its original meaning of empathy and awareness.

Who is affected

African Americans who originally used the term as cultural slang
People labeled as "woke" in a pejorative sense
Military personnel affected by Defense Secretary Hegseth's policy changes
Students and educators in educational institutions where anti-"woke" policies are being implemented
Institutions like the Smithsonian subject to "woke" content reviews
DEI professionals and consultants like Seena Hodges who work with the concept
Transgender troops and those affected by diversity efforts in the military

What action is being taken

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is actively ending what he calls "woke" culture in the military
President Trump is reviewing content at the Smithsonian Institution for being "WOKE"
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is working to keep "woke agendas" out of universities and K-12 schools
Some progressives like Jane Fonda are attempting to reclaim the term's original meaning
Seena Hodges is operating as "The Woke Coach," providing DEI consultations for individuals and groups

Why it matters

The term's evolution reflects deep cultural and political divisions in America
The politicization of "woke" impacts policies in education, military, and government institutions
The backlash against concepts like "wokeness" affects how race, gender, and history are taught and discussed
The debate touches on fundamental questions about inclusion, diversity, and how America confronts its history
For marginalized communities, the co-option of their cultural language has implications for how their concerns are perceived and addressed

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint