From Marginalisation to Empowerment: Transforming Perception through Empowering Language in Aid Narratives
PositiveMinds | Positive Stories | Edition 041
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"When we choose deficit-based language, we are not only describing a situation; we are also influencing how people feel about themselves. It is time to reframe how we communicate and choose our words mindfully, for they can uplift and empower individuals rather than diminish their self-esteem".
In humanitarian assistance, the power of language extends far beyond its everyday utility. It is a pivotal force that can either perpetuate stigma or promote dignity. The choices we make in our words can cast long shadows of disenfranchisement or become beacons of hope, catalysing empowerment and change. Thus, the conversation around the language of aid goes beyond semantics; it is about the undercurrents of human dignity and our shared aspirations for a better world.
The Psychological Impact of Language:
Our lexical choices leave an indelible imprint on individuals' psyches. When we rely on deficit-based language, we unknowingly reinforce negative perceptions and diminish self-worth. For instance, consider the difference between labelling someone as "unemployed" versus recognising them as "seeking employment." The former defines individuals by their lack, while the latter acknowledges their efforts and potential. This linguistic shift is pivotal, as it moves the focus from a static condition to a dynamic process of growth and possibility.
The Societal Consequences of Language:
The ramifications of our words extend beyond individual psychology into the broader social fabric. Deficit-based descriptors are not neutral terms; they carry the weight of historical biases and societal judgments. When we speak of communities as "impoverished" or "underprivileged," we inadvertently echo a narrative of incapacity and neediness, overshadowing the rich tapestry of experiences, knowledge, and skills these communities possess. Our responsibility is to choose language that accurately reflects the resilience and resourcefulness inherent in all human societies.
Promoting Equality and Empowerment:
By perpetuating deficit-oriented language, we unwittingly uphold the structures of inequality that segregate and marginalise. The antidote to this is a conscious pivot towards language that bridges divides, recognising the humanity and equality of all people. This is not a matter of political correctness but of fundamental human respect. In humanitarian communication, adopting a positive language paradigm is not merely a cosmetic change; it is a strategic imperative. Positive language nurtures self-efficacy and community solidarity, transforming individuals from passive recipients of aid into active participants in their own stories of change and resilience.
The Path to Empowering Language:
Transitioning to a more empowering linguistic framework demands intentional effort. It starts with self-reflective education on the impact of language and understanding how deeply entrenched narratives can harm those we aim to support. It extends to policy revisions and communication strategies that consistently align with the principles of respect and equity. Furthermore, it necessitates genuine and ongoing dialogue with the communities themselves, ensuring their agency in defining how they are represented and spoken about.
The Collective Journey:
Embracing this change is not a solitary endeavour but a collective journey. It challenges us to listen attentively, learn with humility, and speak with a consciousness of the power dynamics at play. Humanitarian organisations must act as amplifiers of voices that have been too often ignored or silenced rather than speaking for the voiceless. Resources such as the Oxfam Inclusive Language Guide serve as compasses, providing practical recommendations for adopting a language that fosters inclusivity and affirms the dignity of all individuals.
By committing to this transformative journey, we acknowledge that every word we choose can contribute to a legacy of marginalisation or become a stepping stone towards empowerment. It is a commitment to ensuring that our language conveys compassion while embodying the principles of equality and justice. Through this commitment, humanitarian language can transition from echoing the darkness of marginalisation to reflecting the light of empowerment, illuminating a path towards a more equitable world for all.
Beyond the Blog: Suggested Literature for Additional Learning
Barrett, L. F. (2017). How Emotions are Made: The Secret Life of the Brain. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
Brackett, M. A., Rivers, S. E., & Salovey, P. (2011). Emotional Intelligence: Implications for Personal, Social, Academic, and Workplace Success. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 5(1), 88–103.
Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist, 56(3), 218-226.
Humanitarian Practice Network. The language factor: lessons for communication and community engagement from Translators without Borders' experience. Retrieved from Humanitarian Practice Network
Nelson, G., & Zollmann, A. (2017). The Language of Poverty: Academic Narratives and Social Change. Social Policy and Society, 16(2), 289-302.
