David Petolicchio's "Woke Ideology" Tweet Ignites Debate on Term's Evolving Definition

A recent social media post by David Petolicchio, stating "The woke ideology defined: https://t.co/UWBJbckwyB," has drawn attention to the ongoing public discourse surrounding the controversial term. Petolicchio's tweet, shared on September 26, 2025, reflects a broader conservative critique of "woke ideology," which he has previously described as "a mask that tyrants use in order to further centralize power." The post, which includes a link to an external definition, highlights the persistent effort by some to concretize and disseminate a specific interpretation of "woke."

The term "woke" originated in African-American English, historically signifying an awareness of racial prejudice and discrimination. Its usage gained prominence in the 2010s, particularly in connection with movements addressing social justice and systemic inequalities. However, in recent years, "woke" and "woke ideology" have been increasingly adopted by conservative commentators and politicians as a pejorative label.

Within this conservative framework, "woke ideology" is often characterized as an "intolerant and moralising ideology" that promotes an "equality of outcome" through "dividing Americans on the basis of race, gender, and sexual preference." Critics like Petolicchio suggest this ideology undermines individual responsibility and traditional constitutional principles. This perspective frequently associates "wokeness" with what they perceive as "overrighteous liberalism" and an agenda that seeks to dismantle established societal structures.

The evolving definition has led to significant divergence in public understanding. A 2023 Ipsos poll revealed that 56% of respondents defined "woke" as being "informed, educated on, and aware of social injustices," while 39% viewed it as being "overly politically correct and policing others' words." This stark contrast underscores the term's current role as a battleground in cultural and political debates, with its meaning heavily influenced by the speaker's ideological stance.

As the term continues to be a focal point in public discourse, figures like David Petolicchio contribute to shaping its perception, particularly among conservative audiences. The ongoing debate reflects broader societal tensions over issues of identity, justice, and the direction of cultural norms.