Switchup people3/30/2023 ![]() ![]() The findings differed across ethnic and racial demographics. Linguists studied code-switching to examine when it occurs, while sociologists studied why it occurs. ![]() Albeit, the practice had been known since the early 20 th century. Though when sociolinguist Einar Haugen coined the term in 1954, it was to describe language alternation, or the mixing of two or more languages, or dialects. It was the first time I noticed I had code-switched.Īdmittedly, I was later ashamed for abandoning my native tongue-African American Vernacular English-and sense of self in an effort to assimilate into a space of teaching and learning, particularly because, as the instructor, I was an authority figure.Ĭode-switching is an age-old practice that is familiar to many Black people-and people of color-in the United States. The production of it all, though a departure from my normal self, was seamless. I enunciated each consonant and vowel, and stressed each syllable. The words poured from my mouth pointed and stiff. My thoughts were calculated, quickened, and in search of the “right” things to say. Without thought, I’d shifted my demeanor and speech. ![]() It wasn’t the first time I was unsettled by being the sole Black person in a room, but these moments had a profound effect on me. Its tone was high-pitchedĪnd enthusiastic-a far cry from my naturally soft raspiness. Introduced myself to a classroom of White students. The voice that sprung from my throat was unfamiliar as I ![]()
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