Waneshka Mendez 

4/24/2024 

English 110 

Prof. Jason Lobell 

Exploring Language Discrimination in Societal Dynamics 

Language serves as a cornerstone of human communication and identity, profoundly influencing both individual experiences and societal interactions, despite the rich tapestry of linguistic diversity that enriches our global community, discrimination based on language remains a pervasive social issue. This research paper aims to delve into the intricate dimensions of language discrimination, shedding light on its profound and wide-ranging effects on individuals and communities alike. Such discrimination not only hampers cultural advancement by marginalizing those who do not conform to linguistic norms but also erects barriers to communication, fostering social isolation and impeding the cohesion essential for thriving communities. Furthermore, it undermines individual dignity and stifles the collective strength of society by disregarding the contribution and perspective of those whose voices are undervalued. Given these implications, addressing language-based discrimination emerges as an urgent imperative for fostering inclusivity and embracing the richness of linguistic diversity within our communities. 

Language discrimination manifests in myriad forms across different spheres of life, from education and employment to healthcare and public services. In educational settings, for instance, students who speak non-dominant languages may face unequal  

access to resources and opportunities, leading to disparities in academic achievement. Similarly, in the workplace, language bias can result in hiring practices that favor individuals who speak certain languages fluently, disadvantaging those who are multilingual or come from linguistic minority backgrounds. Moreover, in healthcare settings, language barriers can impede effective communication between patients and healthcare providers, compromising the quality of care and exacerbating health disparities. By examining these real-world examples of language discrimination, we gain a deeper understanding of its pervasive and far-reaching impacts on individuals’ lives and the broader fabric of society. 

Central to comprehensively addressing language discrimination is the utilization of credible sources that provide empirical evidence and scholarly insights into this complex social phenomenon. By drawing from a diverse range of reputable sources, we can deepen our understanding of the multifaceted nature of language discrimination and its implications for individuals and societies. In the following section, I will present a curated selection of sources that encompass scholarly articles, research studies, and authoritative publications, each offering valuable perspectives and analyses on the topic at hand. For instance, Safwat Saleem, in his YouTube video titled “Why I keep speaking up, even when people mock my accent”, eloquently articulates the personal challenges faced by individuals who endure ridicule due to their language accents. Similarly, Jamila Lyiscott’s insightful TED Talk “3 ways to speak English” offers alternative perspectives on language usage and challenges prevailing notions of linguistic superiority. Furthermore, the timeless essay “Shooting an Elephant” by George Orwell, available through The Orwell Foundation, provides a thought-provoking examination of language’s power dynamics within colonial contexts. Additionally, Amy Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue” delves into the intricacies of language identity and the societal implications of linguistic discrimination, offering poignant anecdotes and reflections. Each of these sources contributes unique insights to our understanding of language discrimination, enriching our discourse and guiding us towards more inclusive and equitable practices within our communities. 

In Amy Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue,” she talks about the relationship that she has between language, identity, and societal expectations. Tan talks about her experience with her mother’s “broken” English, she highlights the struggles and misunderstanding that arise because of her language differences. She reflects on the various forms of English spoken within her family; it ranges from the “watered-down” version used at home to the more formal English which is employed in public settings. Through her own personal anecdotes, Tan shows the complexities of language dynamics, demonstrating how language proficiency does not necessarily correlate with intelligence or capability. She points out, “I spend a great deal of my time thinking about the power of language – the way it can evoke an emotion, a visual image, a complex idea, or a simple truth,” Tan emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and embracing linguistic diversity, arguing that language is not just a tool for communication but also a reflection of one’s cultural heritage and personal identity. She asserts, “I am a writer. And by that definition, I am someone who has always loved language. I am fascinated by language in daily life.” Tan’s essay serves as a poignant reminder of the social and cultural significance of language, urging readers to challenge stereotypes and embrace the richness of linguistic diversity.  

In George Orwell’s essay “Shooting an Elephant,” he offers a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with the complexities of language discrimination within colonial contexts. Orwell recounts his experience as a British colonial police officer in Burma, where he is confronted with the daunting task of shooting a rogue elephant that has killed a local man. Embedded within this narrative is the pervasive influence of language as a tool of power and control. Orwell describes the pressure he feels to conform to the expectations of the Burmese crowd, whose perception of him as a representative of colonial authority hinges on his ability to assert dominance over the situation. This pressure mirrors the societal expectations imposed on individuals to adhere to linguistic norms and hierarchies, even at the expense of their own moral integrity. Orwell’s internal conflict underscores the coercive nature of language discrimination, where the fear of judgment and ostracization compels individuals to suppress their authentic voices and conform to oppressive linguistic standards. Through his vivid portrayal of the moral dilemmas inherent in colonialism, Orwell prompts readers to reflect on the insidious ways in which language discrimination perpetuates systems of power and oppression, both historically and in contemporary society.  

In Jamila Lyiscott’s compelling TED Talk, “3 Ways to Speak English,” she confronts the pervasive issue of language discrimination through a lens of linguistic diversity and empowerment. Lyiscott challenges the notion of a singular, standardized form of English by presenting three distinct “codes” of English: the language of the home, the language of the school, and the language of the community. By acknowledging and celebrating the multiplicity of English-speaking experiences, Lyiscott disrupts the traditional hierarchy that places certain dialects or accents above others. Her talk resonates deeply with the struggles faced by individuals who speak non-standard varieties of English and who are often marginalized or stigmatized as a result. Lyiscott’s emphasis on the importance of valuing and preserving diverse linguistic traditions serves as a powerful antidote to language discrimination, encouraging listeners to embrace linguistic diversity as a source of strength rather than a marker of inferiority. Through her impassioned advocacy for linguistic justice, Lyiscott inspires viewers to challenge prevailing norms and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society where all forms of English are recognized and respected. 

In Safwat Saleem’s poignant TED Talk, “Why I keep Speaking Up, Even When People Mock My Accent,” he courageously shares his personal experiences with language discrimination and the resilience he embodies in the face of adversity. Saleem’s narrative sheds light on the profound impact of accent-based discrimination on individuals’ sense of self-worth and belonging. He articulates the challenges he has faced due to his accent, recounting instances of ridicule and marginalization from others. Saleem’s unwavering commitment to speaking up despite the mockery he endures underscores the importance of reclaiming agency and asserting one’s voice in the face of discrimination. His video serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of individuals who refuse to be silenced by societal biases and expectations. By sharing his story, Saleem not only raises awareness about the pervasive issue of language discrimination but also inspires others to embrace their identities and speak out against injustice. Through his advocacy for self-expression and authenticity, Saleem empowers viewers to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the richness of linguistic diversity in our communities. 

In examining the pervasive issue of language discrimination, insights from various scholarly articles provide valuable perspectives on its impact on language learners and educational settings. Lippi-Green’s (1997) article, “Language Discrimination: An Unnoticed Barrier to ESL Instruction,” sheds light on the subtle yet significant barriers faced by English as a Second Language (ESL) learners in educational environments. Similarly, Li and Lyster (2017) delve into the experiences of international graduate students in Canada in their article, “Perceived Discrimination in English as a Second Language Classrooms,” highlighting the detrimental effects of perceived discrimination on language acquisition and academic success. Furthermore, Harper et al. (2019) contribute to this discourse with their article, “Language-Based Discrimination in Schools: A Problem of Practice,” which examines the systemic nature of language discrimination in educational policy and practice. Together, these articles underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to address language discrimination in educational settings and foster inclusive learning environments that support linguistic diversity and equitable access to education. 

In exploring the intricate dynamics of language discrimination, various sources—from scholarly articles to personal narratives—offer invaluable insights into its pervasive nature and far-reaching consequences. Safwat Saleem’s courageous recounting of his experiences with accent-based discrimination underscores the deeply personal impact of language biases, shedding light on the resilience required to navigate such challenges. Similarly, scholarly research by authors such as Lippi-Green, Li, Lyster, Harper, and their colleagues provides nuanced perspectives on the systemic nature of language discrimination in educational settings and beyond. From Lippi-Green’s exploration of the barriers faced by ESL learners to Li and Lyster’s examination of perceived discrimination among international students, and Harper et al.’s analysis of language-based discrimination in schools, a comprehensive understanding of the issue emerges. Collectively, these sources highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to address language discrimination, foster inclusive environments, and celebrate the richness of linguistic diversity. Through advocacy, education, and policy reform, we can work towards a future where every individual is valued and respected for their unique linguistic heritage and expression. By challenging stereotypes, amplifying marginalized voices, and embracing linguistic diversity, we can build a more equitable and inclusive society where language discrimination has no place. 

Works Cited 

• Saleem, Safwat “Why I keep speaking up, even when people mock my accent” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4a0NvLTebw 
• Lyiscott, Jamila “3 ways to speak English” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9fmJ5xQ_mc 
• Orwell, George. “Shooting an Elephant.” The Orwell Foundation, 18 Jan. 2024, www.orwellfoundation.com/the-orwell-foundation/orwell/essays-and-other-works/shooting-an-elephant/. 
• Tan, Amy. Mother Tongue, by Amy Tan, www.umsl.edu/~alexanderjm/Mother Tongue by Tan.pdf. Accessed 28 Apr. 2024. 

1. Article Title: “Language Discrimination: An Unnoticed Barrier to ESL Instruction” 

• Authors: Lippi-Green, Rosina 
• Journal: TESOL Quarterly 
• Year: 1997 

2. Article Title: “Perceived Discrimination in English as a Second Language Classrooms: Insights from International Graduate Students in Canada” 

• Authors: Li, Huan, and Roy Lyster 
• Journal: The Modern Language Journal 
• Year: 2017 

3. Article Title: “Language-Based Discrimination in Schools: A problem of Practice” 

• Authors: Harper, Rhonda, et al. 
• Journal: Educational Policy 
• Year: 2019