The oppressive roots of “Proper Grammar”

“People evolve a language in order to describe and thus control their circumstances, or in order not to be submerged by reality that they cannot articulate. It goes without saying, then, that language is also a political instrument, means, and proof of power (40). Those who control language and the formation of language shape reality.”

What are the systematic tools of our culture’s oppression? “Proper Grammar” and language is one of the #1 elements of this. “Grammar Nazi’s” as they are sometimes called are often white people who are enforcing their taught knowledge of the English language. Much like the Germans forced Germanic language on other peoples by requiring individuals to speak German in trade, English had been imposed on groups of the oppressed. By taking away someone’s native language, we take away roots to their culture. We cannot leave this language privilege unchecked.


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