The democratic public and the practices of the oppressed

Democratic theory, especially deliberative democracy, centrally focuses on verbal communication. In contrast, social movements, especially those fighting against oppression, often use practices such as dance, theatre, or other practical activities. In recent years, theorists have also turned to practices beyond words, for example, artistic expressions and the contributions they can make to democratic life. We expand this line of argument by exploring experimental and transformative practices and their connection to the democratic imperative to overcome oppression. Drawing on practical examples and on the literature on the epistemology and pedagogy of the oppressed, we explore the mechanisms through which experimental and transformative practices can help citizens to improve their epistemic position and to develop their political agency. We argue that even though such practices can also be used by non-democratic forces, democratic societies need to create space for, and take seriously, the contributions that such practices make to democratic life.