An Axe to Grind --Oppressive Language

Here’s some food for thought: language plays a major role in how understand and experience the world. Did you know that through the usage of language we communicate all of our thoughts, emotions, and ideas? Inappropriate language sends discriminatory messages to people, enables specific stereotypes to continue, causes damage to others’ self-esteem, and contributes to violence, so bite your tongue when necessary! Oppressive language is observed in our everyday lives, whether we are at work, home, or school; oppressive language remains to be the elephant in the room.

The bottom line is that oppressive language perpetuates inequality, and before long, may even cause violence between one another. Don’t sweat the small stuff: matters of skin color and ethnicity are insignificant. Racial slurs and other ethnic discrimination in language are still prevalent in a variety of social circles, which isn’t cool. Direct discrimination makes people feel inferior to the dominant white population, sometimes contributing to violence. There are many subtle ways language contributes to racial discrimination. Be all ears: many phrases in the English language connote darkness as negative, for example, “black sheep” or “black mail”. This language can be seen in seemingly innocent “jokes” told in the workplace, home, and at school. It is our job to be on top of this issue and reclaim language. Thinking before speaking and correcting others when they use derogatory terms can be as easy as pie!

In addition to racism and discriminatory language, language is often used to dehumanize women time and time again. You have probably witnessed parents, coworkers, or classmates use words that equate women with animals. All of these words are extremely insulting to women. Cut it out! Let’s put these words to rest and focus on eliminating sexist language from day-to-day usage.

The homosexual community deals with oppressive language big time. Insulting words like “fag” are not only used derogatorily against homosexuals, but also against straight people. This implies that being homosexual is wrong, and it certainly is not! Phrases like “that’s gay” are used in a negative tone to refer to occurrences or objects; these negative phrases that relate to the homosexual community may lead to future hate crimes or insinuate violence. Imagine how you would feel if you were in their position? Be considerate of others and use appropriate language in your social circles, the good results will be off the scale.

Handicapped and other disabled individuals experience patronization and belittling behavior from citizens who aren’t aware of the harm they cause. People who have disabilities are referred to as “cripples”, or some other word that defines their disability rather than themselves as people. People who are overweight or obese fall into this category as well. Think twice before you make a comment on someone else’s weight, as this could be a touchy subject for the individual. Names like “fatso” and “chubby” are degrading and insulting to people with weight issues, yet are used in everyday conversation. Whether you are at home, at work, or at school, acknowledge the situation of people with disabilities and weight issues; treat them with respect and kindness, rather than dehumanizing them through oppressive language. One hand washes the other: with everyone’s cooperation, oppressive language will be a thing of the past.

Oppressive language can be as strong as an ox. We’ve seen this in history when the Nazis seized the Jewish population; by labeling the Jews as “parasites”, “demons”, and the “plague”, the Nazis succeeded in getting the people to believe them. The extermination of millions of innocent people was the result of oppressive language, which is over the top! By examining the past, it is clear as day that the daily oppressive language we are exposed to in our social circles poses a violent threat. Oppressive language creates a hostile environment and can affect a person’s sense of safety. It is mind-boggling that our own social circles carry this atmosphere that fosters violence as a result of certain words. It’s time to take a stand!

Let’s not beat around the bush: bad-mouthing others based on their race, gender, sexuality, disability, or weight is just plain wrong. There are many strategies that we can use to rid words of their derogatory and dehumanizing power. Check with an individual before using a word that has negative connotations. It will show them that you are aware of the oppressive language that is subtly evident in society and will earn you respect from the person. Keep your ears open: if you hear someone using inappropriate language that is insulting and hurtful to another person, bite the bullet, get on top of your soapbox, and make a difference! Many times oppressive language continues for the sole reason that nobody has the guts to confront it in the first place. Get up and get going!