The concept of "woke" has a rich history deeply rooted in the African-American experience. The term's origins can be traced back to African American Vernacular English (AAVE), and its modern usage stems from the lexicon of Black activist communities. "Woke" is fundamentally a state of awareness, particularly about [[social justice]] and racial issues. Its origins are usually attributed to Lead Belly's 1938 song "Scottsboro Boys," which tells the true story of nine Black teenagers falsely accused of rape in Alabama in 1931. A line in the song, "I advise everybody, be a little careful when they go along through there—best stay woke, keep their eyes open," encapsulates the spirit of alertness and caution towards systemic [racism](https://doctorparadox.net/category/psychology/racism/) that continues to be associated with the term. ## Stay Woke The phrase "stay woke" was later popularized in the 1960s and 70s during the [[civil rights]] movement and the Black Power Movement, and was used to encourage people to be conscious of the socio-political realities of racial [inequality](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/economics/inequality-definition/) and injustice. It was a call to remain vigilant and aware, to understand the systemic and structural nature of racism, and to actively work towards dismantling it. The term gained further prominence in the 21st century, notably through its use in the Black Lives Matter movement, which emerged in 2013 following the acquittal of Trayvon Martin's killer. The hashtag #StayWoke often accompanied social media posts about police violence, systemic racism, and the need for justice and equality, serving as a rallying cry for awareness and action. However, as with many terms deeply rooted in specific cultural contexts, the mainstream adoption of "woke" has not been without controversy. Some have criticized its co-option by broader audiences, arguing that it has been diluted and commercialized, losing much of its original potency and nuance. Others see its widespread usage as a sign of the growing consciousness about racial and social injustices. Despite these debates, the essence of "woke" remains grounded in the African American experience and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. It serves as a reminder of the need for continuous vigilance, engagement, and action in the face of systemic injustice. The history of "woke" is a testament to the resilience and activism of the African American community, and its narrative continues to evolve in the ongoing discourse on race and social justice.