|
|
|
Challenging Biased Language
“What Did You Just Say?”
| “What Did You Just Say?” | Resources about Biased Language |
This episode should serve as a stunning reminder to everyone that before anyone makes frivolous comments of a sensitive and hurtful nature, that the consequences of what they say be considered.
-- Bob Mulcahy, Director, Intercollegiate Athletics, Rutgers University, in response to Don Imus’ racist and sexist remarks about the women’s basketball team, April 10, 2007
Recent high-profile episodes of public figures in the hot seat because of racist, homophobic, sexist or anti-Semitic remarks have once again brought attention to the power of words. Whether from actors, “shock jocks,” coaches or comedians, the reverberation of outrage and pain caused by such comments highlights the ongoing struggle in our country to achieve mutual respect and dignity for all. Fortunately, people are more and more often confronting those who spew hurtful epithets and, in some cases, are successful at holding them accountable for their bigoted words.
Such incidents, however, are not isolated to those with fame and power. On a daily basis -- in the lunchroom, at the grocery store, in school hallways and even at home -- people continue to hear and sometimes use words and phrases that demean, ridicule or demonstrate ignorance about people from different groups and backgrounds. Regardless of whether the comments are deliberately malicious, said out of ignorance or thought to be a joke, such words not only impact those on the receiving end but also everyone around who hears the words as well. Such words not only demoralize those targeted but can also reinforce stereotypes and prejudices held by individuals and groups.
Responding to Bigoted Words
Prejudicial phrases and statements often come without warning, leaving the listener stunned and sometimes speechless, unsure how to respond. Unfortunately, the typical response is often to say nothing. ADL believes that there is a better response than no response. While difficult to do, challenging bigoted and offensive remarks is critical to ensuring dignity and respect for all people.
Responding to Jokes and Slurs
This ADL handout provides a process that helps people confront offensive humor or slurs.
“I didn't mean it like that”: Challenging Your Own Biases
Anyone, even those who use and choose their words carefully, may find themselves inadvertently using language or making insensitive comments that hurt others. While the intent may be benign or even neutral, the impact of the words may deeply affect the listener enough for him or her to respond. In such situations, it is easy to get defensive and say, “That’s not what I meant” or “You’re taking it the wrong way.” However, recognizing that all people have biases – developed consciously and unconsciously through socialization, education and media exposure - can help to create opportunities for us to “unlearn” biases and to check ourselves for stereotypes or misinformation that we may hold about people with backgrounds different from our own.
Taking Stock in Ourselves
Because “unlearning” prejudice is a life-long process, it is useful to periodically reflect on our attitudes and behaviors regarding issues of bias. To assist in this, use this handout “Personal Self-Assessment for Non-Discriminatory Behavior” which provides a checklist for assessing individual attitudes and behaviors for bias.
More resources and curriculum lessons about biased language |
|
|
|
|
