* Have less power and influence than the majority group in areas such as politics, economics, and social standing.
* Experience discrimination and prejudice due to their group affiliation.
* May be subject to unequal treatment in areas like employment, housing, education, and healthcare.
It's important to note that minority status is not solely determined by numbers, although numerical inferiority is often a factor.
Examples of minority groups include:
* Racial and ethnic minorities
* Religious minorities
* LGBTQ+ individuals
* People with disabilities
* Women in many societies
Key characteristics of minorities:
* Shared identity based on race, ethnicity, religion, or other factors
* Experiences of marginalization and exclusion
* Potential for collective action to address inequalities
It's crucial to recognize the impact of power dynamics and systemic inequalities that contribute to the existence and experiences of minority groups.