A00241 - Robert Williams and the Birth of Ebonics
As the march through 1930 continues, I pause briefly at the bio for Robert Williams
the Black psychologist who coined the term "Ebonics"
to explain the certain dialects and speech patterns associated with African Americans in various forms throughout the land.
I suppose some of Dr. Williams ideas about Ebonics may seem antiquated now. And yet, I continue to be troubled by the historical fact that at least one famous person began his life speaking a form of Ebonics and that the ridicule and abuse that he endured for speaking such would have consequences for all of American history.
I am also mindful that amongst the People of Turtle Island, there is an increased effort to recover their indigenous dialects. Indeed, each episode of ICT (Indian Country Today) now includes a phrase in an indigenous language that is voiced and explained.
Advancing Efforts to Revitalize Indigenous Languages, Biden-Harris Administration to Host Native Languages Summit | U.S. Department of the Interior (doi.gov)
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The efforts of Dr. Williams to elevate the urban and rural dialects of African Americans to an accepted status may not have been entirely successful. However, in light of efforts being done today for the Indigenous languages of the Indigenous Americans, the efforts of Dr. Williams would appear to have some merit. Some merit, indeed.
Peace,
Everett "Skip" Jenkins
Fairfield, California
February 26, 2024
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