Although it is important for everyone to understand the power of words, I think it is especially important for us as writers.
This study from The National Hispanic Media Coalition found that non-latinos demonstrated much more negative opinions when responding to the term "illegal" or "illegal immigrant" than they did to the term "undocumented". Although neither are fully accurate, people are not illegal. By calling human beings "illegal", we are dehumanizing them. We're equating them with their actions, not their humanity.
As writers, we have influence over the material that reaches the public. Written word in particular is a concrete type of discourse that can shape the way that issues and populations are viewed and understood. From one writer to another, please keep in mind that your words matter! Be kind and respect the personhood of others.
(and as one writer to another, good luck with whatever you may be writing at the moment!)
As writers, we have influence over the material that reaches the public. Written word in particular is a concrete type of discourse that can shape the way that issues and populations are viewed and understood. From one writer to another, please keep in mind that your words matter! Be kind and respect the personhood of others.
(and as one writer to another, good luck with whatever you may be writing at the moment!)
This is so interesting! As the daughter of an immigrant, these terms have a special meaning. Especially with what is happening with the Boston bombers. Since the younger brother is a legal citizen his rights are in question since he is a "terrorist". In deeming him a "terrorist" he might lose his rights to a lawyer, Miranda Rights, etc. Scary how one term can change the course of our rights.
ReplyDeleteI've also seen people suggesting that we don't continue furthering immigration reform. I hate that these panicked responses to a tragedy can affect so much in our country.
ReplyDeleteThat's a great point. The difference between terrorist and citizen definitely has a lot of impact in our legal system!