The first kind of silencing can be worked on. It may take time and practice, but you can speak up just a little, first with people you feel comfortable with and who don’t mock you
Self-censorship
This occurs when you feel you have nothing important to say or contribute. What’s the point in saying anything when it’s not valuable or a genius statement? Most likely, this is a self-imposed restriction not backed by hard-evidence. Sure, you may have been mocked or asked to shut up. It may also be that you may need to learn how to communicate or put across your point better. Whatever it is that has led you to the false belief that you don’t have anything important to say is in all likelihood a falsehood.
Censorship
This happens when you repeatedly make a point, say something but are ignored, disrespected or not taken seriously. Before long, you stop speaking up because, well, that’s the defence mechanism you use when decency and respect are not accorded.
The first kind of silencing can be worked on. It may take time and practice, but you can speak up just a little, first with people you feel comfortable with and who don’t mock you and then slowly proceed towards speaking up even in situations when you aren’t that comfortable.
There really isn’t a cure for the second type of silencing. It means asking people to change their outlook, drop their prejudices, arrogance and ignorance and give people a chance.
Better to find people who give you a sense of comfort to speak up, contribute and make a difference.
