The phrase "subordinate status" means being in a lower position or rank, where someone has less power, authority, or importance compared to others. Full definition
However, the implication of subordinate status is clear. (newscientist.com)
They have nothing to lose but their demeaning, subordinate status in the publishing process. (bidinotto.com)
Either the second chamber would retain its current subordinate status, and people would ask why what they saw as the less democratic Commons gets to overrule the second chamber. (liberalconspiracy.org)