The Language of Diversity A linguists perspective Anna
- Slides: 8
The Language of Diversity: A linguist’s perspective Anna Marie Trester Georgetown University
Ideology is linguistically moderated power and worldview are produced and reproduced through language n language can embed a prejudicial perspective n while most often this occurs below the level of conscious awareness, that is not to say that it is not powerful or potentially damaging n E. g. “girls” to refer to women in support staff n
Linguistics n The scientific study of language n Helps to expose underlying assumptions embedded in language n Based on an understanding that language ALWAYS evolving / changing n Difference does not equal deficiency
Some linguistic changes in talking about diversity From: Affirmative Action, Diversity TO: Inclusion From: Tolerance and Sensitivity TO: Crosscultural Competence From: American Ethnocentrism TO: Developing World Cultural awareness
Framing (George Lakoff) n language always comes with what is called "framing. " n Every word is defined relative to a conceptual framework. n Framing defines the problem in its own way and hence constrains the solutions needed to address that problem (i. e “tax relief”)
“Illegal aliens” / “Illegals” n Dehumanizes n Stresses criminality and otherness n “Illegal” evokes a frame of criminality – Imagine calling speeders “illegal drivers” n “Alien” evokes non-human beings invading, foreign n The illegal frame “blocks” questions like: – why people coming to US – what services they provide while here – why they feel it necessary to avoid legal channels.
Why do the work of examining language choice? (Castania 2003) n We chose to use words that convey sensitivity and understanding not because we want to be “correct” but because how we use words affects people – their concept of themselves and members of their group and the ability to create and maintain authentic relationships across differences. n [terms] allow us acknowledge, speak about, and deal with the outcomes of racial and color divisions of the past and present, while moving toward a more genuine partnership in future.
