Hi all,
As a community psychologist I feel strongly that the use of oppressive
language is something that is detrimental and should be challenged. I work
in a pretty isolated context in some ways (probably no different than many
that dwell in academia as research associates...), and I am hoping for some
feedback on what I have recently experienced as oppressive use of language
in my own setting.
While it certainly may only be a reflection of one individual's poor
choice, as opposed to a departmental view, I have recently received an
invitation to a end of year show entitled "Walking in a Winter Psycholand".
What I am wondering is if other people also find this to be the use of
oppressive language - or is this a point of oversensitivity. Have other
people experienced any similar use of language in their settings? And if
so, what have people done about it. Or, are there any suggestions about
what I could do to effectively challenge this (one emailed complaint has so
far received no response).
As I write this I have a strange sense of loyalty to my institution and
feel perhaps I should not share their oppressive use of language with
others. Or maybe that is just the sense of insecurity that goes along with
the temporary contract reality of the research associate. But I am really
very curious to get some wider opinion about how others perceive this use
of language and suggestions about how to respond to such language without
causing alienation or overly high personal cost.
I would also be interested if anyone has any useful resources or references
about the use of oppressive language and the impact it has on people.
Thanks,
Rebekah
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